Scientists find extinct shelduck species on remote Chatham Islands, showcasing unique evolution.

Researchers discovered an extinct shelduck species on the remote Chatham Islands, highlighting the area's rich biodiversity. These islands, located 785 kilometers east of New Zealand, were home to 64 unique bird species at the time of human arrival. The extinct shelduck, closely related to the mainland paradise shelduck, evolved into a taller, more robust but poorer flying bird. This discovery underscores how isolated island environments can drive unique evolutionary changes in species.