The flying gunard (Dactylopterus volitans) would have been sent to Gessner from the English Channel or Mediterranean. A bottom-dwelling fish, it can glide above the water for short distances by spreading its pectoral fins.

Leading 16th century naturalist Conrad Gessner compiled the four-volume Historia animalium between 1551 and 1558. The fourth volume describes fish, marine animals, and mythical creatures including mermaids and sea monsters. Gessner would not have observed these creatures himself but relied on descriptions or specimens sent to him from across Europe.