The Stellar's Sea Cow (Hydramalis gigas stelleri) is one of five species of sirenians. It was discovered in 1741 and hunted to extinction less than 30 years later.
The last Stellar's Sea Cow died on one of the Bering Islands in 1768.
Stellar's Sea Cows were hunted for their meat and fat.
Sirenians are commonly referred to as "sea cows" even though only the Stellar's Sea Cow is an actual sea cow.
Like the other sirenians, the Stellar's Sea Cow was an herbivore, although because of their indescriminate method of eating it is possible they may have consumed other food matter as well.
Characteristics of Sirenians
Their tail has been modified into a paddle.
They are mostly hairless (except for whiskers).
They have no ear flaps (pinnae).
They have sphincter muscles in place of eyelids.
They have extremely dense bones (pachyostosis).
Their nostrils are closed by valves.
They replace their teeth consistently (new molars in back migrate forwards and take the place of worn teeth).
The Stellar's Sea Cow (Hydramalis gigas stelleri) is one of five species of sirenians. It was discovered in 1741 and hunted to extinction less than 30 years later. 
