Absence of Flight: Unlike many extant birds, dodos were flightless. Their wings had reduced significantly over time and were primarily used for balance and in intraspecific confrontations. This lack of flight made them vulnerable to predators and environmental changes.
Beak Structure: Dodos had a distinctively large, hooked beak. The upper mandible of their beak was longer than the lower mandible and curved downwards. This specialized beak was adapted for feeding on fruits and seeds found on the ground.
Diet: The dodo bird had a primarily frugivorous diet. It fed on fallen fruits and seeds from various native plant species. Its large hooked beak might have been adapted for breaking open hard-shelled fruits. Some theories also suggest that dodos may have consumed insects and other small animals to supplement their diet.
Social Behavior: Dodos are believed to have been social birds, living in communal groups. These groups likely functioned for defense against predators and protection of their nests and young.
Habitat and Endemism: Dodos were endemic to the island of Mauritius, located in the Indian Ocean. They thrived in the lush forests of the island, which provided them with abundant food resources and shelter.
Extinction: The dodo bird became extinct in the 17th century, primarily due to human activities. The arrival of humans led to the introduction of invasive species, such as pigs, dogs, and cats, which preyed on dodo eggs and chicks, contributing to their decline. Additionally, hunting for food, the loss of habitat, and competition from introduced species all played significant roles in the dodo's extinction.
By understanding these key differences, we gain insights into the unique characteristics and adaptations of the dodo bird, which offer valuable information about ecosystem dynamics and vulnerabilities that can inform conservation strategies for other threatened species.