huia
Quick Summary
The huia (Heteralocha acutirostris) was a species of bird endemic to New Zealand, related to starlings and belonging to the wattlebird family, Callaeidae. This bird is now extinct, with its disappearance occurring in the early 20th century.12
Huia were notable for their striking sexual dimorphism, particularly in their beaks. Males had nearly straight beaks, while females possessed beaks that curved downwards. This difference may have played a role in cooperative feeding, with males breaking open wood and females extracting grubs. The huia's tail feathers, tipped with white, were highly valued by Maori chiefs and used as symbols of rank.21
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