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Nicholas Aylward VigorsIrish zoologist and politician
Date of Birth: 01.01.1785
Country:  Ireland |
Content:
- Nicholas Aylward Vigors: Irish Zoologist and Politician
- Education and Military Service
- Return to Academia and Zoological Pursuits
- Founding the Zoological Society of London
- Political Involvement
- Ornithological Contributions
- Legacy
Nicholas Aylward Vigors: Irish Zoologist and Politician
Born in Ireland in 1785, Nicholas Aylward Vigors was a renowned zoologist and political figure. His contributions to ornithology remain significant, earning him a prominent place in scientific history.
Education and Military Service
At the age of 18, Vigors entered Trinity College Oxford. However, in 1809, he suspended his studies to join the military. He served as a junior lieutenant in the Guards Grenadier Regiment and fought in the Peninsular War against Napoleon's army, where he sustained severe injuries in 1811.
Return to Academia and Zoological Pursuits
Upon his discharge from the military, Vigors completed his studies at Oxford, earning a Bachelor's degree in 1818 and a Master's degree in 1819. He dedicated himself fully to zoology, amassing an extensive collection of animals, primarily birds and insects.
Founding the Zoological Society of London
In 1819, Vigors became a fellow of the Linnaean Society of London. His research on bird classification led to the publication of "On the Natural Affinities that connects the Orders and Families of Birds" in 1825. In 1826, he co-founded the Zoological Society of London and served as its first Secretary until 1833.
Political Involvement
After his father's death in 1828, Vigors returned to his family estate in County Carlow. From 1832-1835, he served in the local parliament, where he held radical liberal views.
Ornithological Contributions
Throughout his career, Vigors published approximately 40 papers on ornithology. He was an adherent of the Quinarian system, which proposed a hierarchical classification of taxa into groups of five. He also collaborated with other scientists, including Thomas Bell, to establish The Zoological Journal.
Legacy
Vigors passed away in London in 1840 and was buried in St. Laserian's Cathedral, Old Leighlin. Despite his lack of marriage, he left behind a son, Ferdinand (born 1814). His contributions to ornithology continue to be acknowledged in scientific circles, earning him a lasting legacy in the field.
