Imagine finding a unicorn, then promptly killing it in the name of science. That’s just what happened when, after 20 years of searching, Chris Filardi, Director of Pacific Programs at the American Museum of Natural History, found the elusive Moustached Kingfisher in the forests of the Solomon Islands.

The “ridiculously gorgeous rare bird” is one of less than 1000 mature adults that has been losing its habitat due to deforestation and the introduction of feral cats. The bird is so rare, that since its discovery only three specimens have been collected.

Please join me and ask Ellen V. Futter, president of the American Museum of Natural History, to discontinue the practice of killing in the name of science. We can study and help rare animals without taking their lives. Killing in the name of science is no longer acceptable. Scientists must find ways to study the creatures they claim to love, without taking their lives and contributing to their loss.

The killing of this rare and beautiful bird has caused much controversy in the scientific community. Many of Filardi's colleagues have condemned his actions. One in particular, University of Colorado Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Professor Marc Bekoff,  wrote in an op-ed for the Huffington Post: “ Killing ‘in the name of conservation’ or ‘in the name of education’ or ‘in the name of whatever’ simply needs to stop. It is wrong and sets a horrific precedent for future research and for children.”  

Scientists and laypeople alike need to take a stand and tell Ellen V. Futter, Director of the American Museum of Natural History, that the killing of any creature is wrong and should not be supported or funded by the museum.

Please add your voice to those who believe in the basic premise that every creature's life is precious and demand the that the American Museum of Natural History discontinue its practice of killing in the name of science.