Details

2009.8

Wandering albatross specimen

Massam, Steve (TAXIDERMIST)‎

Adult wandering albatross specimen. This wandering albatross specimen was collected from Bird Island by Robin Snape, a British Antarctic Survey scientist. It was discovered beside a nest with no apparent damage other than a bald patch on its neck. Our taxidermist Steve Massam decided to wait until another suitable specimen was found before working in the specimen so that the neck patch could be covered. On opening the original specimen he discovered that it was badly damaged internally. All the ribs were broken; the breast bone was split and a number of vertebrae snapped. It was as if the bird had been crushed. Fortunately the skull, leg and wing bones were intact which allowed Steve to complete this wonderful specimen. Specimen was prepared at the South Georgia Museum from 2007 – 2008. Steve Massam’s time was funded through a generous donation from Hal du Pont, in memory of his father S. Hallock du Pont senior.

South Georgia Museum

2007 - 2008