Written By
Discover the Story of Booming Ben: The Last Heath Hen
New Episode of The Future of Conservation Podcast
In 1931, on a misty, rain-soaked morning on Martha’s Vineyard, two men hid in a small observation box, waiting for a rare sight: Booming Ben, the very last heath hen — a bird whose species was on the brink of extinction. Soggy and frail, Ben was more than just a bird; he was the final chapter in a heartbreaking story of loss and the urgent need for conservation.
In this episode of The Future of Conservation, we’re honored to speak with Christie Palmer Lowrance, author of The Last Heath Hen, a beautifully told children’s story that captures both the science and the emotional weight of this species' extinction. Christie takes us through the history of Booming Ben and the remarkable efforts to save his kind on Martha’s Vineyard. But more than that, she challenges us to reflect on what it means to lose a species.
As a journalist, biographer, and environmental advocate, Christie brings a unique perspective to this tale, connecting the dots between past extinction events and the present-day challenges facing conservation. Her storytelling is a call to action for the next generation: to understand the delicate balance of ecosystems, to appreciate the wildlife around us, and to fight to protect the last members of vulnerable species before it’s too late.
Whether you’re a conservationist, a nature lover, or someone curious about how history shapes our environmental future, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a reminder of why the fate of creatures like Booming Ben matters to all of us.
Listen now: The Last Heath Hen: A Conversation with Christie Palmer Lowrance
Brought to you by The Future of Conservation podcast, where we explore cutting-edge science, innovative ideas, and the passionate people working to protect our planet and its species. There are new episodes every month— subscribe so you never miss one and join us in making a positive impact on our environment. To learn more, view the full lecture brought to you by the National Conservation Training Center's Conservation Lecture Series.
