The oldest known bird species from which all current ones have descended has been found in China. It is estimated to have lived approximately 130.7 million years ago which is 5 to 6 million years earlier than the former oldest specimen, according to a recent paper.
Paleontologists found two skeletal remains from the new species in the northeast region of the country. It was determined that the feathered bird likely resembled modern-day shorebirds.
Because of its short wings, it may have been able to fly but probably stayed largely on land. The structure of its feet and long hind legs indicate an adaptability to water which means it probably searched for food along the shoreline like cranes do.
Their habitation near water also reflects the possibility of early behavioral specialization and long-time aquatic evolution.
Scientists are continuing to figure out why one group of birds survived prehistoric times to develop into modern species while another known set of birds died off with the dinosaurs.
