The name Moa is of Scandinavian origin and is primarily used for females. It means "Mother". However, it is important to note that Moa also refers to an extinct group of flightless birds indigenous to New Zealand. These birds, known scientifically as Dinornithiformes, were the largest terrestrial animals in New Zealand and were dominant herbivores until their extinction, believed to have occurred within 100 years of human settlement in New Zealand. The Moa's closest relatives are the flighted South American tinamous, and genetic studies have revealed that these birds were the only wingless birds in the ratite group. The name "moa" is a Polynesian term for domestic fowl. Though this historical and scientific context is fascinating, it is important to remember that the name Moa carries a beautiful meaning of "Mother" in its Scandinavian origin.