Before the advent of electronic sensors, canaries were often carried by miners into coal mines.
Canaries were widely used in coal mines as an early warning system for dangerous gas leaks. Miners would bring these birds with them while working underground. If the canaries showed signs of distress or died, it indicated the presence of toxic gases in the mine, prompting immediate evacuation.
If a canary was brought into the mine and exhibited unusual behavior such as agitation or unconsciousness, miners would place it inside a special device, close the lid, and turn a valve at the back of an oxygen tank, allowing the canaries to gradually recover.
According to Forbes, the use of canaries in coal mines began in the early 20th century when it was discovered that these birds are far more sensitive to toxic gases like carbon monoxide than humans.
Miners started carrying these birds, which quickly became “a talisman” for them – when canaries displayed abnormal signs, miners would immediately evacuate to ensure their safety.
Once outside, if the canary was still alive, miners would use a special device known as “canary resuscitator” to save them.
This is a compact handheld device with a round, sealed door to prevent the canary from escaping. If the bird showed signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, the door would be closed, and oxygen from the upper tank would be released inside to revive the canary.
In the 20th century, miners shared tips about bringing canaries into coal mines. The reason for this was simple: the birds were more sensitive to toxic gases than humans. Therefore, in case something went wrong in the mine, miners would immediately know by the bird’s reaction.
The use of canaries in coal mines continued until the late 20th century when technological advancements led to the development of electronic sensors for detecting gas leaks.
By 1986, the use of canaries in coal mines in the UK had nearly become obsolete, with only about 200 canaries still being taken underground during this time.
Despite the fact that digital detectors were becoming cheaper and more effective at detecting gas leaks, some miners still felt that the birds provided a more reliable and comforting presence than technological devices.
An article from 1986 stated: “They have become ingrained in the culture of miners, who often whistle to the canaries and soothe them while they work, treating them as pets.”
If a canary detected toxic gases, it would stop singing, signaling miners to evacuate the tunnel immediately. If exposed to high concentrations of gas, canaries could die. Today, the phrase “canary in a coal mine” is still used to refer to early warning signs of potential danger.
Although the use of canaries in coal mines is no longer common, at the time, it was considered a necessary precaution to protect miners’ lives.
It is noteworthy that the use of canaries in coal mines is now banned in most countries, replaced by electronic sensors for detecting hazardous gases.
The scientific name of the canary is Serinus canaria domestica, commonly referred to as the canary in English. This bird was domesticated from its wild ancestors, originating from the Canary Islands. The first canaries were discovered in the 17th century when a group of Spanish sailors ventured to explore the islands surrounding the Canary Islands. The first canaries accompanied these sailors to the mainland and were sold in pet shops, leading to their popularity as they are known today. Miners in Western countries used to bring a canary cage down into the mines. When the levels of toxic gas in the mine exceeded safe concentrations, the canary would die first, alerting miners to the danger and allowing them to evacuate in time. Consequently, the phrase “canary in a coal mine” emerged, referring to early warning signs of potential dangers ahead. |
