Statue of Liberty and birds, 19th century
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Statue of Liberty and birds, 19th century
Statue of Liberty and birds. Birds becoming fatally disorientated by the original torch used on the Statue of Liberty, New York, USA. This statue was dedicated in 1886, with the torch and its observation balcony illuminated by lights behind the round portholes (upper left). Initially the torch produced only a faint gleam, hardly visible at night, but it was later made brighter for use as a lighthouse. It was the tallest structure in New York when built, and hundreds of birds were sometimes killed in a single day during migration periods. Artwork from the first volume (first period of 1888) of the French popular science weekly La Science Illustree
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6321731
© SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1888 Annual Volume Attract Attracting Bird Birds Dead Death Dying Ecological Electric Light Environmental Environmental Damage Fatal French La Science Illustree Light Light House Louis Figuier Magazine Migration Migratory Monument New York Night North American Ornithological Ornithology Popular Science Statue Torch Urban Us A Weekly High Building Liberty Enlightening The World Mono Chrome Statue Of Liberty
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the history of the Statue of Liberty, an iconic symbol of freedom and hope. Taken in the 19th century, it showcases not only the majestic statue but also a tragic consequence of its original torch. The image reveals birds becoming fatally disorientated by the light emitted from the torch. Initially designed to produce a faint gleam barely visible at night, it was later intensified to serve as a lighthouse for navigation purposes. However, this unintentionally attracted hundreds of migratory birds during their journeys, resulting in numerous casualties each day. The photograph offers a glimpse into both technological advancements and environmental damage caused by human intervention. It highlights how even well-intentioned innovations can have unintended consequences on wildlife populations. Published in La Science Illustree, a popular science weekly magazine from France, this artwork sheds light on an important chapter in the history of one of America's most cherished landmarks. The Statue of Liberty stands tall as an enduring testament to liberty enlightening the world while simultaneously reminding us about our responsibility towards nature. As we reflect upon this image captured over a century ago, let us remember that progress should always be accompanied by careful consideration for our environment and its inhabitants.
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