Pteki

Pteki is a genus of extinct flightless birds that lived in what is now New Zealand during the Oligocene epoch, approximately 25 to 30 million years ago. The name "Pteki" is derived from the Māori word "pūteketeke," which refers to a crested grebe, and was chosen to reflect the bird's likely aquatic or semi-aquatic lifestyle and possibly a somewhat similar appearance.

Fossil remains of Pteki have been found in various locations across New Zealand, primarily in the South Island. These fossils indicate that Pteki was a relatively large bird, though estimates of its exact size vary. It possessed a robust build and, like many extinct flightless birds of the region such as moa and kiwi, was adapted to a terrestrial existence, having lost the ability to fly. Its skeletal structure suggests it may have been a strong swimmer, likely foraging in coastal waters or wetlands for food.

The ecological role of Pteki within its ancient environment is not fully understood due to the limited fossil record. However, it is believed to have occupied a niche similar to modern waterbirds or shorebirds, feeding on fish, invertebrates, or aquatic plants. The extinction of Pteki, like many other endemic megafauna of New Zealand, is likely attributable to environmental changes that occurred during the Oligocene, though specific causes remain a subject of scientific investigation. The discovery and study of Pteki fossils contribute to our understanding of avian evolution and the paleoecology of prehistoric New Zealand.