Extinct Birds of New Zealand 

Author Alan Tennyson, artist Paul Martinson.
Publication Date: November 2006.

Order this book online from Te Papa Store

In New Zealand’s lush rainforests, isolated from the outside world for 80 million years, many extraordinary birds evolved. They included the giant moa, the beautiful huia, and the largest eagle the earth has ever seen. Within a few hundred years, human settlement extinguished 58 species – over a quarter of the species.

For the first time ever, this book brings all these lost birds to life. In rich colour, celebrated painter Paul Martinson depicts each bird in its original habitat. Te Papa palaeontologist Alan Tennyson provides detailed information on the birds as well as a compelling overview of their tragic extinction.

This book is essential reading for experts, students, and anyone interested in this country’s natural history.

View images by Paul Marinson in Collections Online

NZ RRP (incl. GST): $64.99
Extent: 140 pp
Illustrations: More than 60 full-colour and black-and-white
Format: 280 x 230 mm
Binding: HB
ISBN: 978-0-909010-218 

Extinct Birds of New Zealand
 

Book cover: Extinct Birds of New Zealand.

Finalist in the Montana New Zealand Book Awards 2007 – the Environment section.