A fossil unearthed in northwestern Queensland is shedding light on the deep evolutionary roots of Australia’s iconic songbirds. Researchers identified the remains as an extinct giant songbird fossil, believed to be an ancient relative of the modern lyrebird.
The discovery was made in Boodjamulla National Park, a remote area known for its rich fossil beds. The partial wrist bone, dating back between 17 million and 18 million years, belongs to a newly identified species named Menura tyawanoides.
Scientists say the bird was much larger than today’s lyrebirds and spent most of its time on the ground, with limited ability to fly.
Bird’s features reveal ground-dwelling lifestyle
According to Queensland’s Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, the structure of the bone suggests that Menura tyawanoides was a mostly terrestrial bird. It likely lived in the dense undergrowth of ancient tropical rainforests, where flight would have been less necessary for survival.
Modern lyrebirds are best known for their incredible mimicry skills, often copying human-made sounds like chainsaws, alarms and trains. Experts believe this mimicry plays a role in territory defense and communication.
The newly discovered fossil suggests that this vocal lineage has existed for millions of years, evolving through changing landscapes and climates.
Fossil site offers clues to climate resilience
Mike Archer, a professor at the University of New South Wales, said the find adds to a long list of remarkable species uncovered at Riversleigh, a fossil site within Boodjamulla that ranks among the top four in the world.
He noted that the site continues to provide evidence of how ancient animals responded to environmental stress, offering insight into how current ecosystems may adapt in the face of climate change.
Archer explained that many of Australia’s native species, such as lyrebirds, had ancestors that survived previous shifts in climate. He believes these records can help scientists understand the factors that lead to extinction and guide strategies to protect vulnerable wildlife today.
The extinct giant songbird fossil not only fills a gap in Australia’s avian history but also emphasizes the long-term resilience of its native fauna. Officials consider the find a significant piece of the evolutionary puzzle, helping to trace the lineage of birds that continue to shape Australia’s natural soundscape.
