Dodo is a bird that was once endemic to the island of Mauritius. It is an extinct species that became extinct in the 17th century. Over the years, countless scientific studies and researches have been conducted on why dodos became extinct. Teaching students about the extinction of dodos is important, as it can help raise awareness about human activities that can lead to the extinction of species.
One of the primary reasons for dodo’s extinction is the arrival of humans on the island. The Dutch sailors who landed on the island discovered the bird, and they found it to be fat and flightless. They preyed on them for food, as they were unable to fly away, and within years, the bird populations had started to decline. The introduction of invasive species such as rats, pigs, and monkeys further contributed to the decline of dodos.
Another reason for dodo extinction is habitat destruction. As humans started settling in the area and clearing the forests for agriculture and settlements, the habitat of the dodo was destroyed. The birds were unable to adapt to such drastic changes, and as a result, their populations dwindled.
Teaching students about dodo’s extinction can help them understand the impact of human activities on the environment. They can learn about the importance of preserving natural habitats, and the need to protect endangered species. They can also learn about how they can contribute to conservation efforts by reducing their carbon footprint, supporting local conservation projects, and avoiding purchasing products made from endangered species.
One way to teach students about the extinction of dodos is through interactive activities such as creating art pieces depicting dodos and their natural habitat. Students can also conduct group research on how different human activities impact endangered species and come up with ways to reduce these impacts.
In conclusion, teaching students about the extinction of dodos is crucial in raising awareness about species preservation. By understanding the factors that led to the decline of dodo populations, students can learn about the importance of conservation efforts and become advocates for preserving endangered species.
