Evolution of Giant Flightless Birds

[ZoPteryx]

A new study suggests that there was an evolutionary connection between Gastornis and kin of the Northern Hemisphere and the dromornithids (aka: mihirungs, aka: demon-ducks-of-doom) of Australia.  They are united in the clade gastorniformes, which was found to just basal to galliformes (gamebirds).  So perhaps mihirungs should be renamed demon-quails-of-doom.      Of course, this relationship means that their last common ancestor was capable of flight.

The study also looked at several other archaic birds.  South America's Brontornis was found to be related to the terror birds, contrary to other claims, and the Antarctic Vegavis was found to be a bit farther from crown-waterfowl than previously believed.

Good article on the study:
https://theconversation.com/new-research-reveals-the-origin-of-australias-extinct-flightless-giants-the-mihirung-birds-85394

Open access paper:
http://rsos.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/4/10/170975

[EarthboundEiniosaurus]

Wow, what an incredible paper, thanks for sharing 

[Ravonium]

Thanks for showcasing yet another interesting find within the evolution of birds.

[ZoPteryx]

My pleasure! 

[Papi-Anon]

Funny, in the Final Fantasy franchise, chocobos were based partly on Gastornis, but still looked like baby chickens with severe gigantism (the yellow ones, anyways).

I hope this means more paleoart of Gastornis with more fowl-like plumage, maybe a crest or waddle too.