Dromornis

Dromornis is a genus of extinct large flightless birds that lived in Australia during the Pleistocene era. The name Dromornis is derived from the Greek words dromos, meaning running, and ornis, meaning bird. The genus was first described by zoologist Gregory Mathews in 1912.

Physical characteristics of Dromornis include a large body size, with the genus including some of the largest birds to have ever existed. Remains of Dromornis typically consist of fragmented fossilized bones, but estimates suggest that the birds could weigh up to 400-450 kilograms. The diet of Dromornis consisted mainly of plants, however, larger species of the genus may have consumed smaller birds. The lack of fossilized feathers, which suggests ambient temperatures may not have been excessively hot or cold, contradicts previous hypotheses of a hot climate.

Several species of Dromornis are recognized, including the type species, Dromornis australis. The more massive Dromornis novaehollandiae and the possibly smaller Dromornis barklyi are also notable species. Dromornis species were initially suggested to be related to the gallinuloides order, but molecular studies instead link them to paleognathous birds, particularly the casuariiforms. Fossil evidence of Dromornis suggests a habitat that may have been characterized by wooded areas with abundant vegetation. Some of the largest Dromornis bird species are thought to have gone extinct at least 6,000 years ago, due to a combination of factors, and a drastic change in climate.