MORE ON MOAS!

["D.W.Naish" <dwn194@soton.ac.uk>]

Stuff the 327 unread messages in my box, time to mail..

> 
> Jim, Jim, your question is the wrong one. The real question is whether the
> giant eagle attacked the other big bipeds on NZ, the Polynesions!
> 
> GSP

This is the second time I've heard Greg imply that there was a possibly
predatory relationship between _Harpagornis_ and Maoris. What's the case
Greg?

Something I've been itching to talk about since I read about it is the
life appearance of _Dinornis_ moas. We've all seen pictures of these
animals - they're brown ostrich-type things with long necks and legs.
Such artistic renditions stem from Burian's pieces, and are largely
unchallanged. BUT there apparently exist Maori legends where they state
that moas were bulky, shaggy, and with a head crest! Apparently the
males were brightly coloured. Moas restored with this info in mind are
bizarre looking, with 'booted' legs, very thick necks and bodies, and
peacock-type crests. At least one moa species is actually known to have
had a crest, BTW. If all this was good info, those long-limbed,
slim-necked animals you've seen masquarading as moas could be
innaccurate. But I have my doubts, as Maori cave art *does* depict
_Dinornis_ as the conventional, slim-limbed ratite. Basically, then,
soft tissue is needed to endorse either interpretation (e.g. to assess
extent of feathers on leg).

The Maoris also said that some of the big, robust moas (_Pachyornis_?)
ate fish!!!

Anyone aware of any sources figuring Lascaux cave paintings?

"I was making myself the usual cup of tea when the doorbell strangely
rang"

DARREN NAISH