Enaliornis

/ɛˌnæl.iˈɔr.nɪs/ noun

Definition

An extinct genus of toothed bird from the Cretaceous period that was adapted for diving and swimming.

Etymology

From Greek 'enalios' (of the sea) plus 'ornis' (bird). This scientific name describes a creature that was both a bird and a sea creature.

Kelly Says

Enaliornis perfectly captures the wonder of prehistoric diversity—here was a bird that abandoned the sky to become a swimmer, showing that evolution can push creatures in surprising directions.

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