Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Sights > British Museum
Dinornis elephantopus, heavy-footed moa
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Dinornis elephantopus, heavy-footed moa
An extinct wingless bird from the superficial deposits of the middle island of New Zealand in the gallery of Fossils, British Museum, height of skeleton 5 ft 6 in. 1858. NHM Archives 1210 1/11
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 8615247
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10707062
Bone Dinoris Dinornis Dinornithidae Dinornithiformes Emeidae Flightless Footed Giant Moa Heavy Ratite Sauropsid Sauropsida Skeleton Dinornis Elephantopus
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Birds
> Dinornithiformes
> Heavy-Footed Moa
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Sights
> British Museum
> Oceania
> New Zealand
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photograph from the British Museum's Fossils gallery, the heavy-footed moa, Dinornis elephantopus, takes center stage. This extinct, wingless bird, a native of the Middle Island of New Zealand, is depicted through the intricately detailed skeletal remains of its impressive 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) tall frame. Dinornis elephantopus, also known as the giant moa or the one-legged ratite, was a member of the Dinornithiformes and Dinornithidae families, which were part of the larger group of flightless birds known as ratites. The moa's anatomy showcases its unique adaptations for its terrestrial lifestyle. Its heavy, robust skeleton, particularly its powerful legs and feet, were well-suited for its habitat and diet, which primarily consisted of vegetation. This particular specimen, cataloged as NHM Archives 1210 1/11, is a testament to the rich history of avian evolution. The sauropsid origin of birds, which is evident in the moa's skeletal structure, is a fascinating reminder of the close relationship between birds and their reptilian ancestors. The heavy-footed moa's presence in the British Museum's Fossils gallery is a reminder of the natural wonders that once roamed the Earth. Its extinction, along with that of other moa species, is a poignant reminder of the ever-changing biosphere and the importance of preserving and studying the fossil record. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, providing valuable insights into the anatomy and evolution of the heavy-footed moa and the broader avian world. It is a testament to the power of scientific discovery and the importance of documenting the natural world, both past and present.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
