American scientists have found the remains of the largest flying birds

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American scientists have put a fat point in the study found more than 30 years ago, fossils in South Carolina. In the end, they concluded that the fossils belong to the largest flying bird on Earth.



Giant sea bird lived about 25 million years ago. Its wingspan is two times the wingspan of the Albatross – which is about 6 – 7.5 meters. Therefore, it is concluded that the fossils belong to the largest feathered.

The size and preservation of these fossils is just amazing. One of the participants of the research mission the Daniel Xepc did not hide his surprise. Especially strongly impressed him with the skull of a bird. Given the fragility of the bones of birds, it seems incredible how a dead body this individual sank to the bottom of the sea in one piece and not even have been delicious scavengers.

According to the researchers, they found fossils outnumber those of the South American bird Argentavis magnificens, which lived about 6 million years ago. Still this bird was considered as an absolute record holder with a wingspan of 5.5 – 6 meters. New giant gave the name of Pelagornis sandersi. Like the Albatross, he spent most of his life hovered over the ocean in search of prey. The Pelagornis sandersi diet consisted of fish and squid. Despite the impressiveness of their size, Pelagornis sandersi looked very graceful in flight.

Scientists simulated on a computer the process of takeoff the giant bird, from which it concluded that it was very difficult to break away from the surface of the water. However, superelevates assisted in takeoffs and landings skillful use of air currents. The long and thin wings of a bird, hollow bones were excellent aerodynamic performance, which allowed her to develop a good speed.

Source: scienceblog.ru

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