Pilós

Pilós is a genus of extinct toothed birds that lived during the Late Cretaceous period. Fossil remains have been found in various locations, including the United States and Canada. These birds are characterized by their relatively small size and their dentition, which suggests a diet of insects or small vertebrates.

The genus Pilós was first described in the early 20th century based on fragmentary remains. Since then, additional discoveries have provided more insight into its anatomy and evolutionary relationships. Pilós is classified within the order Odontopterygiformes, a group of extinct birds that possessed teeth. However, its exact placement within this order and its relationship to other early birds is still a subject of ongoing research.

The dentition of Pilós is a significant feature. Unlike modern birds, which have beaks adapted for various feeding strategies, Pilós retained teeth within its jaws. These teeth were typically small and pointed, suitable for grasping rather than chewing. This suggests a predatory lifestyle, where the birds would likely capture small prey whole.

The fossil record of Pilós indicates that it inhabited freshwater or coastal environments. The specific ecological niche occupied by Pilós is not fully understood, but its presence alongside other Cretaceous fauna provides clues about the ancient ecosystems it was part of. The extinction of Pilós, like many other bird lineages, is linked to the mass extinction event at the end of the Cretaceous period.