Birdlime

Birdlime is a sticky substance made from the processed inner bark of specific plants or trees, traditionally used in the past for capturing birds. The substance adheres to the feathers of the birds when they land on it, immobilizing them and making it easier to catch. While once widely utilized for hunting or trapping birds, it is often considered a harmful method of bird capture and is largely illegal in many regions due to animal welfare concerns.

Birdlime meaning with examples

• In the olden days, hunters would apply birdlime to branches where birds frequently perched. The sticky substance would trap unsuspecting birds, making it easier to catch them for food or sport. Despite its effectiveness, the ethical implications of this practice have led most modern hunters to adopt more humane methods for bird capture.
• During a nature walk, I stumbled upon an ancient hunting tool: a small jar of birdlime. While I was fascinated by its historical use, I was also saddened by the thought of the suffering it could cause. Today, many wildlife conservationists advocate for the protection of birds, making such practices seem barbaric and outdated.
• As I read about different trapping techniques in an old guidebook, I came across a detailed section on birdlime. It described how the substance is made from the sap of specific trees and how it was traditionally applied to twigs. Although the method is no longer accepted, knowing about it highlights how much our understanding of and respect for wildlife has evolved over the years.
• Sitting in the park, I overheard a conversation about birdwatching, and someone mentioned the use of birdlime in the past. Another replied with distaste, emphasizing that using such a method is not only cruel but also reflects outdated views on nature that need to change. This sparked a broader discussion on sustainable wildlife observation and conservation efforts.