![]() The species was named after Julius von Haast, first director of Canterbury Museum. Like the iconic moa, Haast's eagle evolved through - and survived - multiple glacial periods, when larger body size would have increased survival chances. These characteristics made it the top predator in prehistoric South Island terrestrial ecosystems. ![]() ![]() Near-complete skeleton finds show that it had the body and wings of a giant eagle, legs and bill larger and stronger than the largest living vulture species, and feet and claws as big as a modern day tiger's. It is the largest, heaviest eagle species yet described, weighing up to 17.8 kg and had a wingspan up to 3 metres. This giant endemic eagle was the largest predator among New Zealand's prehistoric fauna.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |