Huia

Heteralocha acutirostris

The Huia (Heteralocha acutirostris) was a unique bird endemic to New Zealand. It was known for its striking sexual dimorphism, with the male having glossy black plumage and a distinctive ivory-white tail, while the female had mottled brown feathers. The Huia was notable for its long, curved beak, which was used for foraging in decaying wood for insects and grubs. Sadly, the Huia is now extinct, with the last confirmed sighting in 1907. The decline of the Huia was primarily due to habitat destruction and overhunting for its highly prized tail feathers, which were used in traditional Maori ceremonial dress.

Habitat: Native forests of New Zealand