| abstract | - Aotearoa, or New Zealand is located far from other land masses, in southern Pacific Oceania, east of Australia. Aotearoa has a low population density, and a strong history of strict conservation. Its largest ethnic group is Europeans (mostly of British origin), followed by polynesian-origin Maoris. Aotearoa, free of mammals (minus bats) and snakes, saw birds become the dominant animals. Like the Galapagos Islands, Madagascar, and other areas with extremely unique biodiversity, a large percentage of Aotearoa is legally off-limits to humans. Also, people living there are unable to bring any non-native species onto the island, including dogs, etc. Each ship must be thoroughly checked upon entry to ensure that rats and other animals do not become feral. Because of these measures, the giant moa, the Harpagornis Eagle, and other animals are making a comeback from the edge of extinction.
|
