Maui Nui large-billed moa-nalo (SciiFii)

The Maui Nui large-billed moa-nalo (Thambetochen chauliodous), also known as the Maui Nui moa-nalo, is one of two species of moa-nalo in the genus Thambetochen. Moa-nalo are a group of flightless, large goose-like ducks, which evolved in the Hawaiian Islands of the North Pacific Ocean. The Maui Nui large-billed moa-nalo was once extinct since the early Holocene, but has since been brought back from extinction by SciiFii and reintroduced back to Hawaii. It is one of the biggest species, about 2.9 feet (90 cm) tall and weigh very similar to a medium-sized goose. Like other moa-nalos, it has reduced wings, chunky legs, and big heavy beaks, featuring large serrations and convergently resembling beaks of giant tortoises. It is a herbivore that primarily feeds on a wide range native and nonnative vegetation. It is a solitary animal that lives in most of its life alone except during breeding seasons or if it is a caring parent. The conservation status of the Maui Nui large-billed moa-nalo is Vulnerable due to some habitat loss and, historically, invasive species, but thanks to conservationists, the invasive predators and egg-eating animals have been eradicated from all of the Hawaiian islands, and the Maui Nui large-billed moa-nalo is a protected species.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii