#feather lady

This iconic image shows a behind-the-scenes view of the vast collections housed at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.

The backroom of the Natural History Museum was a hub of meticulous scientific work, and among its most skilled experts was Roxie Laybourne.

Specializing in feather identification, she developed an unparalleled ability to determine the species of bird from even the tiniest feather fragment.

Her expertise extended beyond academic curiosity, playing a critical role in aviation safety.

The image specifically features the Bird Division of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, showcasing numerous drawers filled with bird specimens. 

The woman in the foreground is identified as Roxie Collie Laybourne, known as the "Feather Lady," a prominent figure in museum's Bird Division.

These extensive collections, including millions of specimens, are stored in hidden back rooms and warehouses, not typically accessible to public. 

The Smithsonian Institution manages a seemingly endless collection of artifacts and museum pieces, and these storage areas are crucial for research and preservation. 

Laybourne frequently collaborated with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), examining feather remains collected from aircraft.

These investigations were crucial in identifying the birds responsible for collisions or engine strikes, helping to prevent future accidents and improve flight safety.

Her detailed analyses often involved comparing microscopic structures, patterns, and other minute characteristics that revealed the bird’s identity.

Thanks to Laybourne’s pioneering work in forensic ornithology, approximately 1,000 bird-related airplane incidents were clarified each year.

Her contributions not only advanced scientific understanding of birds but also saved lives by informing better aircraft design and wildlife management around airports.

She remains a celebrated figure in the intersection of natural history and aviation safety.

© Smithsonian Institution

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Roxie Collie Simpson Laybourne (September 15, 1910 – August 7, 2003) was an American ornithologist born in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

She pioneered the study of forensic ornithology while at the National Museum of Natural History.

These forensic techniques for identifying species of birds involved in bird strikes led to aircraft safety improvements.

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In 1931, Roxie Collie listed airplanes, tennis racquets, and windy days as interests under her name in her yearbook from Meredith College in Raleigh, N.C. The eldest in a family of 15 children, her hobbies included the outdoors, animals, engines, and model airplanes, which were considered improper for a female during that time. In college she had the opportunity to play basketball and participate in track, as well as being the first to wear blue jeans at the all-girls college. She also enjoyed mowing the college’s courtyard in her coveralls. 😄

She received her B.A. from Meredith in 1932, and her M.S. in plant ecology from the George Washington University in 1951.

Roxie Collie Laybourne to go on to create the important field of forensic ornithology, which identifies dead birds from feather samples or fragments which can be quite small. Some aircraft accidents have been caused by bird strikes (collision between birds and aircraft) and forensic ornithology has improved safety through the use of bird data, by making modifications to flight plans and creating programs to scare away birds at some airports. 😍🐧🐦🦅