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Fine Art Print : Elephant Bird and humming bird egg
Fine Art Prints from Science Photo Library
Elephant Bird and humming bird egg
Elephant bird egg (Aepyornis maximus) 30cm compared to a Calliope hummingbird egg (Stellula calliope) 12mm. The Aepyornis egg volume holds around 7 to 10 litres, the hummingbirds a few millilitres. The elephant bird Aepyornis Maximus, laid the largest eggs (and hence the largest single cells) of any animal including the extinct dinosaurs. Scientists postulate it is at the extreme of size that a calcified egg shell can reach. It is robust, whilst at the same time having a thin enough shell for the hatchling to be able to escape. The extinction of Aepyornis appears to have been related to human colonisation of Madagascar in the last 1000 years. The last Aepyornis may have survived to the 16th century. This egg was found in sand dunes near Cap Sainte Marie in the extreme south of Madagascar
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6316105
© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Biggest Bird Comparative Elephant Evolution Extinct Flight Less Giant Madagascar Morphology Nest Shell Variation Aepyornis Divergence
A2 (42x59cm) Fine Art Print
Discover the fascinating world of nature with our exquisite collection of Fine Art Prints from Paul D. Stewart at Media Storehouse. This captivating image showcases the intriguing contrast between the eggs of an Elephant Bird and a Hummingbird. The Elephant Bird egg, from the extinct Aepyornis maximus species, is a marvel of nature, holding the awe-inspiring size once thought to have nourished the giant bird. In stark contrast, the Hummingbird egg, from the Calliope hummingbird (Stellula calliope), is a miniature marvel, holding just a few milliliters. Each print is meticulously produced using high-quality materials, ensuring vibrant colors and stunning detail. Bring the wonder of nature into your home or office with these beautiful and thought-provoking Fine Art Prints.
Our Fine Art Prints are printed on 100% acid free, PH neutral paper with archival properties. This printing method is used by museums and art collections to exhibit photographs and art reproductions. Hahnemühle certified studio for digital fine art printing. Printed on 308gsm Photo Rag Paper.
Our fine art prints are high-quality prints made using a paper called Photo Rag. This 100% cotton rag fibre paper is known for its exceptional image sharpness, rich colors, and high level of detail, making it a popular choice for professional photographers and artists. Photo rag paper is our clear recommendation for a fine art paper print. If you can afford to spend more on a higher quality paper, then Photo Rag is our clear recommendation for a fine art paper print.
Estimated Image Size (if not cropped) is 40.9cm x 59.4cm (16.1" x 23.4")
Estimated Product Size is 42cm x 59.4cm (16.5" x 23.4")
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the remarkable size difference between an Elephant Bird egg and a Calliope hummingbird egg. The Aepyornis Maximus, also known as the Elephant Bird, laid the largest eggs ever recorded in the animal kingdom, surpassing even those of extinct dinosaurs. With a volume that could hold around 7 to 10 liters, these colossal eggs were truly awe-inspiring. Scientists believe that this particular species of bird pushed the boundaries of calcified eggshell size to its extreme limit. Despite their robustness, these shells were thin enough for hatchlings to break free from their confines. Unfortunately, human colonization of Madagascar within the last millennium is thought to have played a significant role in driving the extinction of Aepyornis. It is believed that the last surviving member may have lived until as recently as the 16th century. The discovery of this magnificent Elephant Bird egg in sand dunes near Cap Sainte Marie in southern Madagascar offers us a glimpse into Earth's evolutionary history and highlights how variations in morphology can lead to extraordinary adaptations. This photograph by Paul D. Stewart serves as a poignant reminder of our planet's rich biodiversity and emphasizes our responsibility towards preserving it for future generations.
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