Raphidae
extinct bird family
Quick Summary
The Raphidae were a family of extinct, flightless birds that were related to pigeons. This family is known for including the dodos and solitaires. These birds were unique to the Mascarene Islands and became extinct due to predation by sailors and introduced livestock. Having evolved in a predator-free environment, they lost the ability to fly and became large, heavy-bodied birds with strong bills and feet. The wings became rudimentary, and their sternum had only a small keel.12
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