CHAPTER V
THE EXTERMINATION OF SPECIES, STATE BY STATE
Early in 1912 I addressed to about 250 persons throughout the United States, three questions, as follows:
- What species of birds have become totally extinct in your state?
- What species of birds and mammals are threatened with early extinction?
- What species of mammals have been exterminated throughout your state?
These queries were addressed to persons whose tastes and observations rendered them especially qualified to furnish the information desired. The interest shown in the inquiry was highly gratifying. The best of the information given is summarized below; but this tabulation also includes much information acquired from other sources. The general summary of the subject will, I am sure, convince all thoughtful persons that the present condition of the best wild life of the nation is indeed very grave. This list is not submitted as representing prolonged research or absolute perfection, but it is sufficient to point forty-eight morals.
Birds And Mammals That Have Been Totally Exterminated In Various States And Provinces
Alabama:
Passenger pigeon, Carolina parrakeet; puma, elk, gray wolf, beaver.
Ridgway's quail (Colinus ridgwayi); Arizona elk (Cervus merriami), bison.