In the 19th century, an eccentric Englishman named Charles Waterton created the world’s first nature reserve. But what makes Waterton truly fascinating is his unusual hobby—taxidermy! He wasn't content with simply preserving animals in lifelike poses; he crafted bizarre and imaginative hybrid creatures, like a human-headed bird, to amuse and shock his Victorian visitors. His conservation efforts were ahead of his time, and his quirky creations offer a glimpse into the strange and wonderful intersection of art and nature. Who knew taxidermy could play a role in early conservation?