Arthur Landsborough Thomson facts for kids

Sir Arthur Landsborough Thomson (born October 8, 1890 – died June 9, 1977) was a Scottish scientist. He was known for his work as a medical researcher. He was also a very important expert on birds, especially how they travel long distances, which is called bird migration.

Life and Work

Arthur Landsborough Thomson was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on October 8, 1890. His father, John Arthur Thomson, was also a well-known scientist.

Arthur went to school at the Royal High School, Edinburgh and later at Aberdeen Grammar School. He then studied Natural History at Aberdeen University, where his own father was a professor. He finished his studies in 1911.

During the First World War, he served as a leader in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, a famous Scottish army regiment. He received a special award for his service in the war.

After the war, starting in 1919, Arthur became a medical researcher. He worked in this field for many years, until he retired in 1957. His important work was recognized by the King and Queen. In 1933, King George VI gave him a special honor, and in 1953, Queen Elizabeth II made him a knight, so he became "Sir" Arthur. In 1962, he received the Buchanan Medal from the Royal Society for his contributions to medicine.

He was also a very active and respected member of the scientific community. In 1938, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, which is a group of top scientists in Scotland.

Sir Arthur was especially passionate about birds. He led several important bird organizations:

• He was the President of the British Ornithologists' Union (BOU) from 1948 to 1955. This is a major group for people who study birds.
• He was also the President of the Zoological Society from 1946 to 1950, which looks after animals.
• He was the Chairman of the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) from 1941 to 1947. This trust helps people learn about birds and protect them.

For his amazing work with birds, he received the Bernard Tucker Medal in 1957 and the Godman-Salvin Medal in 1959.

Sir Arthur Landsborough Thomson passed away on June 9, 1977, at Queen Mary's Hospital in Roehampton.

Family

In 1920, Arthur Landsborough Thomson married Mary Moir Trail. They were married until Mary passed away in 1969. They did not have any children.

Images for kids

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  Dr and Mrs Thomson in Holland in 1930, photo by Alexander Wetmore