FAUNA OF THE POST-PLIOCENE. 347 
but it is certain that species of this genus were alive during the 
human period, and survived up to quite a recent date. Not 
only are the bones very numerous in certain localities, but 
Ai 
Mt 
Fig. 257.—Skeleton of Dinornzs elephantopus, greatly reduced. Post-Pliocene, 
New Zealand. (After Owen.) 
they are found in the most recent and superficial deposits, and 
they still contain a considerable proportion of animal matter; 
whilst in some instances bones have been found with the 
feathers attached, or with the horny skin of the legs still ad- 
hering to them. Charred bones have been found in connec- 
tion with native “‘ovens;” and the traditions of the Maories 
contain circumstantial accounts of gigantic wingless Birds, the 
“ Moas,” which were hunted both for their flesh and their 
plumage. Upon the whole, therefore, there can be no doubt 
