A young Mount Pitt bird

Over-harvesting a vital food source

Good Eating

When Norfolk Island’s 1790 crops failed, the colonists faced starvation. The arrival of these birds, which nested on the top of Mount Pitt, in late March proved to be the settlement’s salvation.

These clumsy birds were easily killed. At the height of the slaughter thousands were killed each night: on 5 June 1790, for instance, 6125 birds were taken.

Perhaps surprisingly, the danger of overharvesting this valuable resource was also quickly realised. Orders were issued limiting the numbers of birds which could be taken and the hours during which they could be hunted. However, by 1800 the birds had abandoned Norfolk Island.

The fine quality and manner of execution of this charming watercolour of a young chick suggests it may have been painted in India, from a preserved skin.
Display item A young Mount Pitt bird

 

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