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Elephant Bird and humming bird egg
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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
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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
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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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