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Image of Dodo
Dodo

The Raphus cucullatus, or dodo, was a flightless bird of Mauritius with a bulky body and distinctive hooked beak. Once unafraid of humans, this unique forest dweller became extinct in the 17th century, symbolizing the impact of human activity on vulnerable species.

10-30 years
Lifespan
20.0 kg
Weight
Height: 1.0 m
Size
Brown, Grey, Black, White
Color
Extinct
Conservation Status
Characteristics
The extinct Raphus cucullatus, known as the dodo, was a flightless bird native to Mauritius. It had a large, hooked beak and a robust, plump body. The dodo inhabited forests and fed on fruits. It was notable for its lack of fear toward humans, contributing to its extinction in the late 17th century.
Distribution Range of the Dodo
Raphus cucullatus, commonly known as the Dodo, was native to the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean.
Dodo's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Dodo inhabited forested areas on Mauritius, which featured a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity. The island's environment included dense forests with a mix of hardwood trees, palm trees, and a lush understory.
Ecological Niche
The Dodo occupied a niche as a ground-nesting, flightless bird. It primarily fed on fruits, seeds, and possibly small invertebrates found on the forest floor. The absence of natural predators allowed the Dodo to thrive in this unique ecological setting until the arrival of humans and introduced species.