Research Bite: The Demon Duck of Doom
The Dromornis planei also known as the Demon Duck of Doom gets its name for its humongous stature and terrifying beak.
When?
The bird lived in the Oligocene period, approximately 23-33 million years ago, and was the first species of the Dromornis species.
The bird stood at 2.5 - 3 metres, and averaged at a whopping 450-650kg, that's heavier than a grand piano! It is the largest bird the world has known.
To find out more about the Demon Duck, check out this article, which was a source for the above facts. Also check out Surviving Australia, the recently reimagined gallery at the Australian Museum that celebrates Australian Megafauna.
Credits
Thankyou to Felicity Saber-Hoese and Jennifer Thomson for their guidance of these students.