Aepyornis

/ˌeɪpɪˈɔːrnɪs/ noun

Definition

An extinct genus of giant flightless birds from Madagascar that could grow as tall as 10 feet.

Etymology

From Greek aepy (tall, high) + ornis (bird). The name accurately describes these towering extinct creatures that walked Madagascar's ancient forests.

Kelly Says

Aepyornis was so massive that its eggs were the size of 150 chicken eggs—legend has it some explorers thought they'd found dragon eggs. These birds probably inspired the 'roc' in Arabian Nights stories.

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