A Real Dodo Picture: The Last Remnant of a Lost Species

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History is home to a fascinating specimen that has been shrouded in mystery for centuries - the real dodo picture. For many, it comes as a surprise to learn that this iconic bird is not just a relic of the past, but an actual specimen with preserved soft tissues. This unique find holds great significance, as it may one day be used to 'de-extinct' the dodo and undo the harm caused by human activity over 400 years ago.

The dodo's story is a tragic one. Once abundant on the island of Mauritius, this member of the pigeon family was hunted relentlessly by invasive species such as rats, cats, dogs, and pigs. Its habitat was destroyed, leaving the dodo with no choice but to succumb to extinction. The last recorded sighting of the bird dates back to 1662.

The Oxford specimen is particularly noteworthy due to its exceptional preservation. Unlike other dodo specimens, which are often fragmented or deteriorated, this one has retained soft tissues that could potentially be used for cloning purposes. This finding has sparked renewed interest in the dodo's story and has reignited efforts to 'de-extinct' the species.

The history of the dodo is marked by its discovery by Dutch sailors in 1598. Upon arrival on the uninhabited island, they were met with an abundance of wildlife, including birds twice as large as swans. Despite their initial excitement, the crew soon turned to hunting and eating other birds, deeming the dodo's meat 'no good.' This event marked the beginning of the end for the dodo, which would eventually become extinct within a century.

In conclusion, the real dodo picture is not just a relic of the past, but a poignant reminder of humanity's impact on the natural world. The Oxford specimen serves as a beacon of hope for conservation efforts and a testament to the importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity.

Real dodo picture