Beastly Merseyside Av Ken Pye

The sight, sound and smell of animals are a part of the story of every town and city. Animals have shaped the cultural and economic life of Merseyside since the first settlements there, not only the well-known use of horses for agricultural work and to transport people and goods, and the fishing industry, but also pit ponies and even the importation of mummified cats from Egypt to be used as fertiliser. Animals have also been a source of wonder and entertainment in the many zoos and menageries built in Merseyside over the centuries, some very odd and others quite spectacular, including two zoological gardens that opened to the public in Liverpool in the nineteenth century, one of which witnessed the execution of Rajah, the Elephant, for killing his keeper.Other individual animals have also played their part in Merseyside's history, from Mickey the Chimp, Liverpool's own King Kong, to Toby, the Punch and Judy dog. Mythical and legendary creatures associated with the region are also covered, including the Liver Bird, which is the symbol of Liverpool, and a mysterious sea monster in the Mersey. In Beastly Merseyside, local author Ken Pye takes the reader on a fascinating exploration of the region's animal associations through the ages.Full with unusual tales and fascinating facts, this well-researched history will introduce readers to the fascinating history of Merseyside's animals.