Bird of the Week

The Great Auk


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Last time we met the Penguins, and learned that they are almost totally confined to the Southern Hemisphere. Despite how perfect it would be, there are no Penguins in the Artic. But did you know, Penguins were named after a now extinct northern dwelling bird, the Great Auk? So, what was this bird's deal and where did they go? Great questions, and as always I have the answers. Join me for a romp to the past and the far north and we'll learn a thing to two.

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Notes:

  • Catch up on the Penguin background: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1733312/10464354-penguin-extravaganza
  • Great Auk: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_auk
  • Convergent evolution: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convergent_evolution
  • Common Eider: https://birdoftheweek.home.blog/2020/01/14/bird-88-common-eider/
  • The Little Ice Age: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Ice_Age
...more
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