Actually, it was the subspecies which lived up till the 17th century, they were unfortunately wiped out due to the need for the first settlers to maintain manicured `English` gardens. Attracted by the perfectly laid and cut grass in front of the new European style houses, this species became dependent on lawns. Unfortunately the owners were not going to allow these majestic birds to feast upon their gardens without retribution of the worst kind.... Thus, the sad demise of the wonderful, yet defenseless lawn moa came about.