The bird that became extinct in 1861 is the Passenger Pigeon. This bird was once one of the most abundant bird species in North America, with flocks numbering in the billions. However, due to a combination of habitat loss and over-hunting, the population of Passenger Pigeons rapidly declined, leading to their eventual extinction.

The Passenger Pigeon was a unique and fascinating species. They were known for their incredible flocking behavior, with flocks so large that they could darken the sky for hours as they passed overhead. These flocks would often stretch for miles and could take several hours to pass by a single location. The extinction of the Passenger Pigeon is a tragic loss for biodiversity.

The decline of the Passenger Pigeon population began in the early 19th century as European settlers cleared vast areas of forests for agriculture and settlement. This destruction of their natural habitat led to a decrease in available nesting sites and food sources for the birds. Additionally, the expansion of the railroad system made it easier for hunters to access previously remote areas, leading to increased hunting pressure.

By the mid-19th century, the Passenger Pigeon population had reached a critical point. The last known wild individual was observed in 1900, and the last captive bird, named Martha, died in the Cincinnati Zoo on September 1, 1914. Martha's death marked the official extinction of the species.

The story of the Passenger Pigeon serves as a stark reminder of the impact human activities can have on the natural world. It highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the need to protect and preserve vulnerable species and their habitats. The loss of the Passenger Pigeon is a sobering lesson and a call to action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

In conclusion, the Passenger Pigeon became extinct in 1861 due to habitat loss and over-hunting. This bird, once incredibly abundant, is now lost forever. Its extinction serves as a reminder of the need to protect and conserve our natural world for future generations.

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