Elephant Bird Egg. Aepyornis maximus. Madagascar. ...

Description

Elephant Bird Egg
Aepyornis maximus
Madagascar

One of the most unique and intriguing offerings of this - or any, for that matter - auction, this Elephant Bird Egg representing the Aepyornis variety is rather spectacular. Measuring an enormous 11 inches (28 cm) in length, this example of the colossal eggs, some 160 times the volume of any normal chicken egg, was produced by a group of flightless birds known as ratites, which grew to heights of 10 feet (3 meters). As a result of the theory of Island Gigantism, these strange and huge creatures were referenced in writings by legendary explorer Marco Polo. In fact, human predation may have hastened the end of the reign of Elephant Birds. It is a rarity to have eggs not composited out of pieces from multiple eggs, and any such egg like this singular, exceptional representation is something very special. A wonderful texture, subtle yellowish coloration, and compelling oblong shape result in this huge egg being interesting and highly collectible.
Measurements: 11.02 x 7.48 inches (28.00 x 19.00 cm)



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