extinct bird of new zealand crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "extinct bird of new zealand", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions, explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle and deepen your knowledge of fascinating creatures from New Zealand's past.
Solutions for "extinct bird of new zealand crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MOA: A large, flightless bird endemic to New Zealand, which became extinct around 1500 AD. Moas were a diverse group, with species ranging greatly in size, and were a significant part of the pre-human New Zealand ecosystem.
4 Letters
HUIA: An iconic New Zealand wattlebird, known for its sexual dimorphism in bill shape. The male's beak was short and straight, while the female's was long and curved. The Huia became extinct in the early 20th century, largely due to habitat loss and overhunting for its tail feathers.
More About "extinct bird of new zealand crossword clue"
The "extinct bird of New Zealand" clue almost universally points to one of two fascinating species: the Moa or the Huia. These birds represent significant chapters in New Zealand's natural history and the impact of human arrival. The Moa, a majestic flightless bird, was the dominant herbivore in New Zealand's ancient forests. There were several species of moa, varying greatly in size, with the largest standing over 3 meters tall. Their extinction, primarily due to hunting by early Māori settlers, profoundly changed the island's ecosystem.
The Huia, on the other hand, was a stunning forest bird famous for the distinct curvature of its beak, which varied between sexes – a rare example of sexual dimorphism in beak shape. Revered by the Māori people, its long, elegant tail feathers were highly prized. Unfortunately, the Huia succumbed to a combination of habitat destruction and over-collection for its feathers and taxidermy specimens following European settlement, with the last confirmed sighting in 1907.
Both the Moa and Huia serve as poignant reminders of biodiversity loss and the delicate balance of ecosystems. Their stories are deeply embedded in New Zealand's cultural and environmental heritage, making them frequent subjects in crosswords and a testament to the unique natural history of the islands.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Specificity: Pay close attention to words like "extinct" and "New Zealand." These narrow down the possibilities significantly. "Extinct" rules out endangered but still existing species, and "New Zealand" limits the geographical scope.
- Consider Letter Count First: Before diving into obscure bird names, check if the grid provides a letter count. "MOA" (3 letters) is a very common solution for this clue due to its brevity and clear association. If 3 letters don't fit, think of slightly longer but still well-known options like "HUIA" (4 letters).
- Use Intersecting Letters: The letters you've already filled in from crossing words are invaluable. They can confirm a suspicion or eliminate incorrect possibilities for the "extinct bird" clue. Don't be afraid to leave it blank and come back once more letters are revealed.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While MOA is the most frequent answer, remember that crosswords sometimes use less common but equally valid answers to challenge solvers. Knowing a few alternatives like HUIA can be a game-changer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the largest extinct bird of New Zealand?
The largest extinct bird of New Zealand was the Giant Moa (Dinornis robustus), which could stand up to 3.6 meters (12 feet) tall with its neck outstretched. These magnificent creatures were unique to New Zealand and played a vital role in its ecosystem.
Are there any other famous extinct New Zealand birds besides the Moa?
Yes, besides the Moa, another well-known extinct New Zealand bird is the Huia. It was a beautiful forest bird, famed for its unique curved beak (which differed between male and female) and its cultural significance to the Māori people, becoming extinct in the early 20th century.
Why is 'MOA' a common crossword answer for an extinct New Zealand bird?
MOA is a popular crossword answer for 'extinct bird of New Zealand' due to its short length (3 letters), distinct and easily recognizable name, and its strong, direct association with the clue. It's often one of the first words learned when encountering New Zealand fauna in puzzles, making it a staple for setters.