Auction in Yorkshire will cast spotlight on extinction fate of once-abundant Passenger Pigeon

Most people are familiar with the sad fate of the Passenger Pigeon, an American species which is said to have gone from 2,000 million birds to extinction in little more than a couple of decade. In 2004, the disaster 'inspired sculptor' Chris Manley (who died two years ago) to create this striking  memento. One of twelve, it stands 39 cm high and is expected to fetch between £300 and £500 at a sale to be held by Tennants auctioneers, of Leyburn in North Yorkshire, on Saturday October 3.