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"Only now do we know the true story- Megarachne was a giant prehistoric sea scorpion." |
Looking like a cross between an ostrich and a giant eagle, diatryma (pronounced die-ah-TRY-mah) was one of the most dominant predators of its day. This creature popped up soon after the dinosaurs died off 65 million years ago. The giant bird used its huge beak and sharp talons to rip open small mammals or other prey. Some experts also think this bird might have scavenged other creatures' kills or even eaten plants.
Mr. Bill: Diatryma's most amazing feature was its huge skull. The bird's head was about as big as a horse's, and it also had a gigantic beak. Sharp and hooked like a hawk's, the diatryma's bill easily sliced through prey.
Talons of Terror: These claws made great weapons for pinning prey to the ground or even slashing enemies with a series of kicks.
What's for Dinner?[]
Fossil evidence shows this big bird had a big bill.
Diatryma's huge body, massive bill and sharp talons provide ample evidence that the beast was probably a serious predator. This bird could have easily pounced on medium-sized mammals that lived during the same period, slashing them with its claws and beak. But some scientists think diatryma was a scavenger, using its massive beak to crack through the bones of dead animals that were already stripped clean of meat, much the way hyenas do today. Still others say the bird ate plants, splitting thick branches and stems in ancient forests.
Grounded: Like an ostrich, diatryma was restricted to a life on the ground. This bird's wings were short and stubby, and couldn't even come close to providing enough lift to allow the bird to fly.
Lightweight: Though diatryma looked like a bulky, slow-moving bird, its bones were very light. This allowed the creature to run at high speeds when chasing down prey or making an escape from an enemy.
Down for the Count[]
- With a burst of speed across a field, diatryma attacks a dog-sized mammal, pinning it to the ground under its huge foot and gripping the victim with sharp talons.
- The mammal struggles, but diatryma easily grabs the animal in its massive beak. The bird bites and shakes its head at the same time to snap the victim's spine.
- Using one foot for balance, the diatryma rips into its dinner, slicing through the mammal's skin and tearing strips of meat away with its beak.
Trading Card[]
Trivia[]
- Diatryma is now classified as Gastornis gigantea. It's diet is debated still, but the consensus is it was a vegetarian.
- The diatryma is featured in Fossil Finders on Monster Mania 56.
- The skull used for the game is also featured on the back of the knowledge card.