Hawkins' Rail was a large, flightless rail endemic to the Chatham Islands, east of New Zealand. Known primarily from subfossil remains, it was one of the largest rails ever discovered, with powerful legs, and is believed to have been an apex predator in its island ecosystem. Tragically, it went extinct shortly after human arrival.
Where to spot
Known only from subfossil remains found on the Chatham Islands, New Zealand.
How to spot
This bird is extinct and cannot be observed in the wild. Information is derived from historical accounts and skeletal remains.
When to spot
Extinct. It is believed to have gone extinct around the 1890s, likely due to overhunting and predation by introduced species.
Where to spot
Known only from subfossil remains found on the Chatham Islands, New Zealand.
How to spot
This bird is extinct and cannot be observed in the wild. Information is derived from historical accounts and skeletal remains.
When to spot
Extinct. It is believed to have gone extinct around the 1890s, likely due to overhunting and predation by introduced species.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Despite being flightless, its incredibly robust legs and large size suggest it was a formidable ground predator, likely preying on smaller birds and invertebrates.
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