Australia’s giant thunderbirds likely went extinct 40,000 years ago due to changing climate, study finds
Climate became much drier with increasing seasonal variation and unpredictable droughts Slow breeding patterns coupled with a changing climate led to the extinction of the iconic Australian thunderbird over 40,000 years ago, a new study has suggested. The research, published recently in the journal The Anatomical Record , assessed big bones from the extinct giant thunderbird or dromornithid, excavated in the northern reaches of the Flinders Ranges and near Alice Springs in Australia . Scientists, including those from Flinders University, say the size and breeding cycle of these birds gradually changed over millennia, but they couldnt keep pace with the climate and environmental changes happening around them. Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies The giant mihirung Dromornis stirtoni, by artist Peter Trusler Peter Trusler Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today. Log in New to The Independent? Or if you would prefer: Want an ad-free experience? Hi {{indy.fullName}}