- Hunting: The primary cause attributed to the extinction of dodo was excessive hunting by sailors, explorers, and colonists. With their flightlessness and lack of natural predators, the dodo birds became easy targets for sailors who sought fresh meat during their long sea voyages.
- Habitat Destruction: The transformation of Mauritius' ecosystem due to human activities severely impacted the dodo's habitat. Forests were cleared for agriculture and development, significantly reducing the availability of nesting sites and food sources for the birds.
- Introduced Species: The arrival of invasive species, such as pigs, rats, and dogs, played a significant role in depleting dodo populations. These introduced animals often preyed on dodo eggs and hatchlings, further contributing to their decline.
- Natural Disasters: Mauritius was prone to natural disasters like cyclones, droughts, and floods. These events could have caused significant disruption to dodo populations and their nesting grounds, leading to population decline over time.
Conclusion:
The extinction of the dodo serves as a potent reminder of the consequences of human activities on vulnerable species. The combination of relentless hunting, habitat destruction, introduced predators, and natural disasters proved catastrophic for the dodo, leading to its ultimate extinction in the late 17th century.