Why did the dodos die?

Hunting: Dodos were hunted for food by humans, both for subsistence and for sport. They were easy prey, as they had no natural defenses against predators.

Predation by introduced species: Humans also brought dogs, pigs, cats, and rats to Mauritius. These animals preyed on dodo eggs and chicks, further contributing to the decline of the population.

Habitat destruction: The introduction of non-native plants, deforestation for agriculture, and increasing human habitation all contributed to the destruction of dodo habitat.

Climate change: The climate in Mauritius changed during the 17th century, becoming drier and cooler. This may have contributed to the decline of dodo food sources, such as fruits and insects.

All these factors combined to lead to the extinction of the dodo in the mid-17th century.