Pengana
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| Flexiraptor Fossil range: Early Miocene |
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| Pengana robertbolesi Boles, 1993a |
The Flexiraptor (Pengana robertbolesi) is an extinct species of bird of prey - the only one of its genus known to date - probably related to harriers. It probably resembled a cross between the Secretary Bird and Crested Caracara, and lived during the Early Miocene (23-16 million years ago).
Its remains were found in Riversleigh (Queensland), Australia. The Flexiraptor is only known from a tibiotarsus (ankle bone). However, this is of most peculiar construction, allowing the leg to be swiveled backwards and sideways. The bird was thus well-adapted to reach into holes and crevices and extract prey. The vernacular name "Flexiraptor" was coined to reflect this ability.
[edit] References
- Boles, W. E. (1993a): Pengana robertbolesi, a peculiar bird of prey from the Tertiary of Riversleigh, northwestern Queensland, Australia. Alcheringa 17: 19-26.
- Boles, W. E. (1993b): The fabulous flexiraptor: a bird with a strange twist. Riversleigh Notes 22: 2-3.
[edit] External links
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