Moa

Moa were a group of flightless birds native to New Zealand. They are part of the ratite family, which also includes ostriches, emus, and kiwis. Moa were among the largest birds in history, with some species reaching up to 3.6 meters in height.

Taxonomy

Moa belong to the order Dinornithiformes, which is divided into two families: the Dinornithidae, or giant moa, and the Emeidae, or lesser moa. There are nine recognized species of moa, spread across six genera.

Description

Moa were large, flightless birds with a robust build. They had long necks, which they used to browse on foliage, and strong legs adapted for walking. Unlike other ratites, moa had no wings, not even vestigial ones. Their feathers were coarse and similar to hair, and they had a large beak for eating.

Behavior and Ecology

Moa were herbivores, feeding on a variety of plants, including leaves, seeds, and fruits. They were likely solitary animals, although they may have lived in small family groups. Moa were hunted by the Haast's Eagle, the largest eagle known to have existed.

Extinction

Moa became extinct around the year 1300, likely due to overhunting by the Māori, who arrived in New Zealand around the year 1280. The extinction of the moa also led to the extinction of the Haast's Eagle, which relied on the moa as a primary food source.

In Culture

Moa have a significant place in Māori culture and folklore. They are often featured in traditional stories and legends, and their bones and feathers were used to make tools and clothing.

See Also

• List of New Zealand birds
• History of New Zealand
• Māori culture

References

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Moa gallery

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  Dinornis maximus, Natural History Museum

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  Moa size comparison

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  Kiwi, ostrich, Dinornis

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  Euryapteryx

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  Anomalopteryx didiformis

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  Pachyornis elephantopus

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  Pachyornis geranoides

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  Megalapteryx didinus

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  Dinornis robustus

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  The skeletons of Eastern moa and other kinds of moas in Otago museum