Lost Species: 9 Birds That Have Gone Extinct

27 July, 2024

Dodo (Raphus cucullatus) Native to Mauritius, this flightless bird became extinct in the late 17th century primarily due to hunting and habitat destruction by humans and introduced animals.

Passenger Pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius) Once the most abundant bird in North America, the Passenger Pigeon was hunted to extinction in the early 20th century. Its vast flocks darkened the skies, but overhunting and habitat loss proved too much.

Great Auk (Pinguinus impennis) This large, flightless seabird was hunted for its feathers, down, and oil. The last known pair was killed in 1844.

Carolina Parakeet (Conuropsis carolinensis) The only native parrot to the continental United States, the Carolina Parakeet was driven to extinction by habitat loss and hunting for its feathers.

Labrador Duck (Camptorhynchus labradorius) A sea duck that mysteriously disappeared in the late 19th century, the Labrador Duck's extinction remains a puzzle. Overhunting and changes in its marine environment are suspected culprits.

Hawaiian Crow (Corvus hawaiiensis) Also known as the ʻalalā, this bird was driven to extinction in the wild due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species. Captive breeding efforts are underway to reintroduce the species.

Spix's Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) This stunning blue macaw is now extinct in the wild due to habitat loss and illegal trapping for the pet trade. Captive breeding programs are working to save the species from complete extinction.

Ivory-Billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis) This iconic woodpecker, with its striking black and white plumage, is believed to be extinct, although there have been unconfirmed sightings in recent years. Habitat loss and deforestation were the primary causes of its decline.