Simon makes a classic point when he discusses the decline and fall of the passenger pigeon...however, recent evidence has greatly revised the passenger pigeon story. According to 1491, by Charles C. Mann (and excellent book about the culture and achievements of the Native Americans prior to colonization), the passenger pigeon was nowhere near as abundant a bird before the European's arrival. While its remains have been found in pre-Columbian middens, they are not found in anywhere near the quantities one would expect given the numbers that occurred later, in fact, they did not even appear to be a major part of the diet. Apparently, the enivironmental changes produced by the colonists led to a population explosion. This in no way changes the significance of their extinction, In fact, it adds an unfortunate beginning to the story...perhaps if their numbers had been kept within normal bounds, the temptation to simply blast them out of the sky wouldn't have been there...and they may still exist today. As for the AOS decline in membership, I am in full agreement (except for the web portion...as I have never been at their website other than to post requests for undelivered issues, I am in no position to comment). I started with the AOS in 1984, as a beginner who wanted more than I was getting from Sunset books. And I got a lot...I still base much of my paph care on the series of articles by Ned Nash ...I got a chance to take an interest in a variety of non-standard orchids that I never would have been aware of otherwise. It was with great reluctance that I re-subscribed this year at the new inflated price...I am with many others..I look at the pictures, read a review or 2 and never look at it again. Maybe every 3rd issue I have something to interest me and read..but unless there is an improvement, I will not re-subscribe. We must not overlook the influence of the internet....in the past 10 years, my primary source of info has come from The OGD and before that the OLD..and the various other forums I belong to like Slippertalk...censorship is a major problem on many forums..I am not about to get into what I see (or rather, don't see, )on another forum that I used to post on..and I truly appreciate the freedom we actually have here..(notice the sudden uptick in posts?) Yes, some people come on here as bullies and cranks...as in all forums...and this is nothing compared to what I have seen on reef forums or even worse, reptile forums. Still, this is now the main source of up-todate info, and directed info...right now, it seems that only the Orchid Digest has kept the classic magazine format alive and healthy...maybe the AOS decline can inspire it to come out more often...Take care, Eric Muehlbauer in Queens, NY..getting colder.....
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