the takahe (porpyhyrio hochstetteri) is a large member of the rail family native to small, predator-free islands of new zealand. takahe are flightless, and are similar in coloration to the related pukeko but have a large, blocky beak and thicker legs. they feed mainly on grasses, shoots, and leaves, sometimes facing competition from red deer, which graze on these plants.
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today's bird 