Ancient bird skull from Antarctica might be from early duck relative
The skull, from an ancient relative of ducks and geese known as Vegavis iaai, suggests that the key characteristics of modern birds were already in place 69 million years ago. Birds evolved from dinosaurs millions of years ago – but the route from these avian ancestors to now is largely mysterious.
Antarctica is home to a peak shaped like a perfect pyramid — but contrary to what conspiracy theorists say, the mountain's four symmetrical faces were forged through natural processes.
A few fossilized body parts hinted at an enigmatic bird's close ties to waterfowl like ducks and geese. A newfound skull may bolster that idea.
It represents ancient record of the Earth's climate and the story of a once warm Antarctica before it morphed into a snowy desert. Carlo Barbante coordinates the drilling project. We will now be ...
Some results have been hidden because they may be inaccessible to you
Show inaccessible results
Feedback