Variáis

Variáis refers to a group of extinct species of large, flightless birds that inhabited the island of Madagascar. These birds are believed to have been closely related to the moa of New Zealand and the elephant birds of Madagascar, though they are distinct from the latter. Variáis are known from fossil evidence, including bones and eggshells, which have allowed paleontologists to reconstruct their appearance and estimate their size. They were significant components of Madagascar's prehistoric fauna, likely playing a role in seed dispersal and ecosystem dynamics.

The exact taxonomic classification of variáis is still a subject of ongoing research, with some scientists considering them to be a distinct family, while others place them within the broader context of ratites. The name "variáis" itself is a modern construction, derived from the Malagasy word for "big bird." Their extinction is thought to have occurred relatively recently in geological terms, possibly coinciding with the arrival of humans on Madagascar. This human presence likely led to habitat alteration and direct hunting, contributing to the demise of these large, vulnerable creatures. The study of variáis provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history of birds and the paleoecology of Madagascar.