The dodo was a flightless bird that was endemic to the island of Mauritius, east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean. The dodo's extinction was caused by a combination of human activities and environmental changes.
Factors contributing to the dodo's extinction include:
- Hunting by humans: The dodo was hunted for its meat and feathers by sailors and settlers. The dodo was easy prey because it was flightless and had no natural predators on Mauritius.
- Habitat destruction: The dodo's habitat was destroyed by deforestation and the introduction of non-native species, such as pigs, goats, and monkeys. These species competed with the dodo for food and resources and also preyed on the dodo's eggs and young.
- Climate change: Mauritius experienced several droughts during the 17th century, which may have also contributed to the dodo's decline. The droughts reduced the availability of food and water, making it difficult for the dodo to survive.
The last confirmed sighting of a dodo was in 1662. The dodo's extinction is a reminder of the importance of conservation and the need to protect endangered species and their habitats.