A single feather from the now extinct New Zealand huia bird has set a new world record after being sold at auction for NZD$46,521.50. The feather, which was expected to fetch only around $3,000, surpassed the previous record for a feather of the same species by 450%. The huia bird was considered sacred by the Māori people, who often wore their feathers as headpieces and gifts. The last confirmed sighting of the huia bird was in 1907, with unconfirmed sightings reported for several decades after.
The huia bird, a small songbird in the wattlebird family, was known for its distinctive white-tipped plumage and jumping abilities. The feather sold at auction was in excellent condition, preserved behind UV protective glass with archival paper to ensure its longevity. The feather is registered as a taonga tūturu, a protected Maori object, and can only be purchased by licensed collectors within New Zealand.
The high interest and enthusiasm from New Zealanders contributed to the record-breaking price of the feather at auction. The extinction of the huia bird is a reminder of the importance of protecting the country’s unique flora and fauna. In the past, huia feathers were a status symbol among the Māori people, but the popularity of the species among European collectors and fashion merchants ultimately led to its demise. The huia bird serves as a poignant symbol of the need for conservation efforts to prevent similar tragedies from happening again.