Haast's eagle

Haast's eagle was an extinct species of eagle that lived on New Zealand's South Island.

Haast's eagle was an extinct species of eagle that lived on New Zealand's South Island. It is widely regarded as the largest eagle known to have existed and is commonly identified with the Māori bird known as the pouākai. It became extinct after human settlement, likely in the 14th or 15th century, as its moa prey disappeared and habitat was altered by fire.

Description

Haast's eagle was a massive raptor adapted to hunting large prey, especially moa. Estimates place its mass at about 10–18 kilograms, making it larger than any living eagle.

Distribution and habitat

The species was endemic to New Zealand and lived on the South Island. Sources describe it as inhabiting forested and shrubland environments.

Diet and ecology

Haast's eagle was the top predator in its ecosystem and is best known for preying on moa. Its size is considered an evolutionary response to the availability of very large, flightless birds.

Extinction

The eagle disappeared after humans arrived in New Zealand, likely around the 14th or 15th century. Researchers attribute its extinction to the loss of moa, habitat destruction by fire, and broader human impacts.

Cultural significance

Haast's eagle is widely believed to correspond to the pouākai of Māori tradition. This association has made it notable in both scientific and Indigenous cultural contexts.