The extinction of the Dodo bird

Complete the notes. Write ONE WORD ONLY in each gap.

The extinction of the dodo bird

The dodo was a large flightless bird which used to inhabit the island of Mauritius.

History

• Portuguese ships transporting 31. stopped at the island to collect food and water.

• The Dutch established a 32. on the island.

• They killed the dodo birds for their meat.

• The last one was killed in 1681.

Description

• The only record we have is written descriptions and pictures (possibly unreliable).

• A Dutch painting suggests the dodo was very 33. .

• The only remaining soft tissue is a dried 34. .

• Recent studies of a dodo skeleton suggest the birds were capable of rapid 35. .

• It’s thought they were able to use their small wings to maintain 36. .

• Their 37. was of average size.

• Their sense of 38. enabled them to find food.

Reasons for extinction

• Hunting was probably not the main cause.

• Sailors brought dogs and monkeys.

• 39. also escaped onto the island and ate the birds’ eggs.

• The arrival of farming meant the 40. was destroyed.