Did leech collectors face any competition from other professions?
Frequently Asked Question about the extinct profession: Leech Collector
Yes, leech collectors did face competition from other professions. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, leeches were used for medicinal purposes and were in high demand. This led to competition from doctors, pharmacists, and even fishermen who would catch and sell leeches themselves. Additionally, advancements in medicine and the development of synthetic alternatives also posed a threat to the leech collecting profession.