As i have previously mentioned, i am preparing materials for a seminar in
wildlife law. in addition to legal cases, i would like to include case
studies on human impacts on wildlife. The Passenger Pigeon is an obvious
choice for several reasons: it was perhaps the most abundant species of
animal on the planet but nonetheless became extinct. Furthermore,
although it was ruthlessly exploited, the species appears to have become
extinct despite a cessation of hunting. It thus seems to suggest that
populations may become extinct even if attempts are made to save remnant
populations -- a cautionary tale, if you will.

The above is couched in qualified language because i am unsure of where
it was that i "learned" that hunting dminished but did not *directly*
destroy the species, i.e., the last birds were not shot by hunters but
the species population nonetheless collapsed. Hence the query: can
anyone direct me to sources on why the Passenger Pigeon became extinct?

Any comments, suggestions, leads, or ideas greatly appreciated.

dale goble
moscow