avarines

Avarines are a group of extinct birds that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 70 to 66 million years ago. They are known from fossil remains found in Europe and North America. Avarines are characterized by their large size, robust beaks, and strong legs, which suggest they were adapted for a terrestrial lifestyle. Their fossils have been found in a variety of environments, including coastal and inland settings, indicating a diverse range of habitats.

The name "avarines" comes from the genus Avaravis, which was first described in 2010. The group includes several genera, such as Avaravis, Avisaurus, and Avisauravis. These birds are part of the larger group of enantiornithines, which are considered to be one of the earliest branches of modern birds. Avarines are notable for their unique combination of features, including a long, slender beak, a large, robust body, and a long tail, which is a characteristic shared with some modern birds.

The fossil record of avarines is relatively limited, but they provide valuable insights into the early evolution of birds. Their robust build and terrestrial adaptations suggest they may have been adapted for a diet of insects or small vertebrates. The discovery of avarines has helped to fill in gaps in our understanding of the evolutionary history of birds and their transition from theropod dinosaurs.