eugenicera

Eugenicera is a genus of extinct, flightless birds that lived during the Miocene epoch, approximately 23 to 5.3 million years ago. The genus is known from fossils found in Europe, particularly in Germany and France. Eugenicera is characterized by its robust body, strong legs, and a large, heavy beak, which suggests it was adapted for a terrestrial lifestyle.

The genus includes several species, the most well-known being Eugenicera germanica. This species is notable for its large size, with some individuals reaching up to 1.5 meters in length and weighing over 100 kilograms. The fossils of Eugenicera have been found in a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and coastal areas, indicating a diverse range of habitats.

The diet of Eugenicera is thought to have consisted primarily of plants, with some evidence suggesting they may have also consumed small animals. Their strong legs and heavy beak would have been well-suited for digging and foraging in the soil.

Eugenicera is an important genus in the study of bird evolution, as it provides insights into the early diversification of birds and their adaptation to terrestrial environments. Its fossils have been used to inform our understanding of the evolution of flightlessness in birds and the development of their unique adaptations for life on land.