Bird-lime

Bird-lime is a sticky substance used historically for trapping birds. It is made from the bark of the holly tree or from certain viscous substances derived from plants. Bird-lime is applied to branches where birds are likely to land; the unsuspecting birds get caught in the sticky substance, making them unable to escape.

History

Bird-lime has been used since ancient times. The practice is mentioned in various historical texts, indicating its widespread use across different cultures and continents. In Europe, it was commonly used until the 19th century when more humane and less harmful methods of bird catching were developed.

Preparation

The traditional method of preparing bird-lime involves boiling the bark of the holly tree in water until a thick, sticky substance is formed. This paste is then strained and cooled. The quality and stickiness of bird-lime can vary depending on the preparation method and the specific type of plant used.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

The use of bird-lime is considered illegal and unethical in many countries due to its cruel nature and the potential harm it causes to birds. Modern bird conservation laws, such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States, prohibit the use of bird-lime and other similar methods for capturing or harming birds.

Cultural References

Bird-lime is often used metaphorically in literature to describe situations where individuals find themselves unexpectedly trapped or ensnared. The substance's effectiveness and the difficulty with which it can be removed make it a powerful metaphor for sticky or tricky situations.

See Also

• Bird trapping
• Conservation ethics
• Wildlife management