The introduction of great-tailed grackles Quiscalus mexicanus by Aztecs in pre-Columbian times reported by Haemig (Ardeola, 58: 387–397) probably constitutes the most detailed information on an ancient exotic bird introduction. There is however sparse evidence, compiled here, showing that several domesticated and non-domesticated bird species were translocated even thousands of years ago by different civilizations, often ending on exotic introductions which last until current times. Given that different ancient cultures showed a great fascination for exotic birds and intensively traded them, we should expect a number of still unraveled old-time introductions worldwide. The combination of information from old-written documents, archeological and fossil findings, stable isotope analyses, art museums, and the most advanced molecular techniques should add exotic introduction surprises in the coming years.
How to translate text using browser tools
1 December 2011
The Unknown Extent of Ancient Bird Introductions
José L. Tella
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE
![](/ContentImages/journals/arla/58/2/2/WebImages/098.058.0200.cover.jpg)
Ardeola
Vol. 58 • No. 2
December 2011
Vol. 58 • No. 2
December 2011
ancient civilizations
aves invasoras
avian invasions
civilizaciones antiguas
comercio de fauna
disjunct distributions
distribuciones disjuntas