Portuguese sailors first encountered a large flightless bird on the island of Mauritius. They were appalled by the funny appearance of the bird and the ease with which it could be captured.

They christened the bird as ‘doudo’ the Portuguese word meaning “stupid!” The Latin name of the bird Didus ineptus also symbolizes its silliness.

The flesh of Doudo or Dodo tasted delicious! They were hunted down easily, since the birds were not only stupid but also daredevils.

By the end of the 18th century they have become extinct. Hence the expression “as dead as a dodo!”