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Dodo skeleton, Raphus cucullatus
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Dodo skeleton, Raphus cucullatus
The dodo is an icon of extinction, one of the first widely acknowledged cases of a species being wiped out by humans. There are so few complete dodo skeletons that we may never know exactly what they looked like or how they lived. This Natural History Museum specimen is a composite made from bones around 1, 000 years old from different individuals
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Media ID 14238703
© Mary Evans / Natural History Museum
Bone Columbidae Columbiformes Dodo Extinct Photograph Raphinae Raphus Raphus Cucullatus Sauropsid Sauropsida Side View Skeleton Specimen Studioshot Treasures White Background
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In this studio shot, the skeletal remains of a once-flourishing species take center stage. The Dodo, scientifically known as Raphus cucullatus, is an iconic symbol of extinction and one of the earliest widely acknowledged cases of human-induced species wipeout. With fewer than 30 complete dodo skeletons known to exist, the true anatomy and lifestyle of this avian enigma remain shrouded in mystery. This remarkable specimen, showcased in the esteemed halls of a Natural History Museum, is a composite created from bones estimated to be around 1,000 years old. Originally hailing from the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, the dodo was a member of the Columbidae family, within the larger group of Columbiformes, and the Raphinae subfamily. As a Sauropsida, or reptile-descended bird, the dodo boasted a unique and fascinating anatomy. In this side view, the skeletal structure reveals a robust, flightless body, characterized by a large, rounded head, a short, heavy neck, and powerful, wing bones that had likely evolved into sturdy legs for ground dwelling. The dodo's extinction, believed to have occurred around 1500-1680 AD, is attributed to human activities, including hunting and habitat destruction. Today, this precious specimen serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of preserving the natural world. This evocative photograph, with its pristine white background, offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the history of our planet's biosphere, inviting us to ponder the wonders and enigmas that lie hidden within the annals of time.
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