The dodo, a unique bird endemic to Mauritius, became extinct within just seventy years of its discovery by European sailors. Known for its slow movement and lack of flight, the dodo had few defenses against the threats posed by humans and introduced species. This trusting nature ultimately contributed to its demise, as it could not escape the predators that colonizers brought with them.

Bill Bryson, in his book "A Short History of Nearly Everything," highlights the tragic story of the dodo as a cautionary tale about human impact on the environment. The rapid extinction of such an iconic species serves as a reminder of the consequences that can arise from exploitation and habitat destruction.