Due to the cruelty and stupidity of mankind, the passenger pigeon became extinct September 1, 1914 when Martha, the last of the species passed away in the Cincinnati Zoo. She had been named in honor of First Lady Martha Washington.
In the 1800s, passenger pigeons numbered in the billions and flocks could darken the skies. Since they fed on crop foods, they became enemies of farmers. Also, people found out that passengers pigeons were delicious. As a result, they were hunted to the point of extinction and only then, did people realize the only living specimens were in zoos. By that time, it was too late. Martha passed away at the ripe old age of 29.
We are seeing history repeat itself.
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