Extinct Birds of New Zealand

Te Papa Press, Wellington, 2006. Ex library copy. Green hard cover has tape stains and bumping to corners. Rubbing to bottom edge. Minimal library markings including withdrawn stamp, library stamp on page edges and security sticker at rear. Dust jacket has fading to the spine and edges and some edge-wear. Nice ex library copy.

In New Zealand's lush rainforests, isolated from the outside world for 80 million years, many extraordinary birds evolved. They included the giant moa, the beautiful huia, and the largest eagle the earth has ever seen. Within a few hundred years, human settlement extinguished 58 species - over a quarter of the species. For the first time ever, this book brings all these lost birds to life. In rich colour, celebrated painter Paul Martinson depicts each bird in its original habitat. Te Papa palaeontologist Alan Tennyson provides detailed information on the birds as well as a compelling overview of their tragic extinction. This book is essential reading for experts, students, and anyone interested in this country's natural history.