Dodo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dodo
[หdoส.doส ]
Definition
extinct bird
The dodo was a flightless bird that lived on the island of Mauritius. It became extinct in the late 17th century due to overhunting and habitat destruction. The dodo is often used as a symbol of extinction and human impact on the environment.
Synonyms
dodo bird.
Examples of usage
- The dodo is often cited in discussions about conservation.
- Many people are fascinated by the story of the dodo's extinction.
- The dodo's extinction serves as a cautionary tale for modern conservation efforts.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Extinction
- The dodo fell prey to introduced species like dogs, cats, and rats when humans arrived on Mauritius.
- By the late 17th century, dodos had become extinct, just about 100 years after they were first discovered by Europeans.
- Their extinction is often cited as an example of human impact on nature and the fragility of ecosystems.
Pop Culture
- The dodo has become a symbol of extinction and is often referenced in literature and art as a warning against environmental carelessness.
- In Lewis Carroll's 'Aliceโs Adventures in Wonderland', a character based on the dodo contributes to the whimsical nature of the story.
- The dodo's distinctive appearance makes it a favorite subject in childrenโs books and cartoons.
Biology
- The dodo was part of the pigeon family, related more closely to birds like the Nicobar pigeon than any modern non-flying bird.
- It is believed that the dodo adapted to life on the island without predators, leading to its inability to fly and its large size.
- Despite its bulk, the dodo had a relatively small brain, which some studies suggest contributed to its vulnerability.
Conservation
- The story of the dodo has become a rallying cry for conservation efforts, reminding us of the importance of protecting endangered species.
- Numerous initiatives aimed at preserving endangered species often cite the extinction of the dodo as a cautionary tale.
- The dodo serves as a lesson about biodiversity and the consequences of habitat destruction, reinforcing the need for sustainable practices.
Origin of 'dodo'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'dodo' comes from the Portuguese term 'doudo', meaning 'fool' or 'crazy', reflecting how people viewed the bird.
- Early drawings of the bird often depicted it in a silly way, contributing to the notion of its foolishness.
- The name became associated with extinction and uniqueness, representing species lost forever.
The word 'dodo' comes from the Portuguese term 'doudo', meaning 'fool' or 'crazy', which reflects the bird's lack of fear of humans. The dodo was first documented by European sailors in the late 1500s and quickly became a subject of curiosity. As a flightless bird, it evolved without natural predators, making it vulnerable to human activity. Within a century of its discovery, the dodo was extinct, leading to broader discussions about the impact of human colonization and environmental change on species survival. The legacy of the dodo continues to influence conservation efforts and serves as a reminder of the fragility of ecosystems.