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Ancient Fossil Redefines Bird Evolution Timeline by 20 Million Years

2/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking discovery in Fujian province, China, has unveiled Baminornis zhenghensis, the earliest known bird, dating back 20 million years earlier than previously thought. This remarkable fossil, with traits resembling modern birds, reshapes our understanding of avian evolution and the fascinating transition from dinosaurs to birds, as detailed in the journal Nature.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking discovery in Fujian province, China, has unveiled Baminornis zhenghensis, the earliest known bird, dating back 20 million years earlier than previously thought. This remarkable fossil, with traits resembling modern birds, reshapes our understanding of avian evolution and the fascinating transition from dinosaurs to birds, as detailed in the journal Nature.