If you think this ancient bird has odd looking feet, you’re right.
Chinese researchers have discovered that Elektorornis chenguangi had a hyper-elongated third toe that was actually longer than its lower leg – the first time such a foot structure has been observed in birds, either living or extinct.
They suspect, as this reconstruction suggests, that the toe was used to hook food out of tree trunks.
The actual toe – from 99 million years ago – was found preserved in amber. Hence the name: Elektorornis means “amber bird”.
“I was very surprised when I saw the amber,” says first author Lida Xing from the China University of Geosciences, Beijing. “It shows that ancient birds were way more diverse than we thought. They had evolved many different features to adapt to their environments.”
Based on the fossil, Xing’s team estimates that Elektorornis was arboreal, and smaller than a modern sparrow.
Their findings are published in the journal Current Biology.
Originally published by Cosmos as Best foot forward
Cosmos
Curated content from the editorial staff at Cosmos Magazine.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.
