Sorses

Sorses, also known as Sors, are a group of extinct birds that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 72 to 66 million years ago. They are notable for their unique combination of features that set them apart from other known birds. Sorses had a mix of primitive and advanced characteristics, making them an important transitional form in the evolution of birds.

The most well-known species of Sorses is Sors crassirostris, which was discovered in the Hell Creek Formation of North Dakota, USA. This species is characterized by its robust, heavy beak, which is unlike the slender beaks of most modern birds. The beak of Sors crassirostris is more similar to that of some non-avian dinosaurs, suggesting a possible evolutionary link between the two groups.

Sorses also had a unique set of teeth, which are rare among birds. These teeth were likely used for processing food, similar to the way some modern birds use their beaks. The teeth are small and conical, and they are found in the upper and lower jaws.

The fossil record of Sorses is relatively limited, but they are believed to have been small to medium-sized birds, with a body length of around 30-40 centimeters. They likely had a diet consisting of small animals and insects, similar to many modern bird species.

The exact evolutionary relationships of Sorses are still a topic of debate among paleontologists. Some researchers suggest that they may be closely related to modern birds, while others propose that they are more closely related to non-avian dinosaurs. Regardless of their exact evolutionary position, Sorses provide valuable insights into the early evolution of birds and the transition from non-avian dinosaurs to modern birds.