Giant “Terror Bird” Uncovered in South America: A Glimpse into Prehistoric Ecosystems

Discovery Highlights

1. Fossilized leg bone of massive carnivorous bird found in Colombia’s Tatacoa Desert.
2. Estimated 5-20% larger than known Phorusrhacid species.
3. Dated to Miocene epoch (12 million years ago).
4. Northernmost discovery of its kind in South America.

The “Terror Bird”

1. Phorusrhacid: giant, ground-dwelling bird with adaptations for running.
2. Omnivorous diet: primarily consumed other animals.
3. Related to modern seriema bird (up to 3 feet tall).

Fossil Analysis

1. 3D virtual model created using portable scanner.
2. Deep pits and teeth marks from extinct caiman (Purussaurus).
3. Suggests terror bird died from injuries.

Ecological Significance

1. Indicates diverse, lush ecosystem in prehistoric northern South America.
2. Coexisted with primates, giant ground sloths, and armadillo relatives.
3. Contrasts with today’s desert environment.

Research Implications

1. Expands understanding of South American wildlife 12 million years ago.
2. Potential for unrecognized terror bird fossils in existing collections.

Reference

Degrange et al. (2024). A gigantic new terror bird (Cariamiformes, Phorusrhacidae) from Middle Miocene tropical environments of La Venta in northern South America. Papers in Palaeontology, DOI: 10.1002/spp2.1601

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