Pengana

Taxobox
name = Flexiraptor
fossil_range = Early Miocene
regnum = Animalia
phylum = Chordata
classis = Aves
ordo = Falconiformes
familia = Accipitridae
genus = "Pengana"
genus_authority =
species = "P. robertbolesi"
binomial = "Pengana robertbolesi"
binomial_authority = Boles, 1993a

The Flexiraptor ("Pengana robertbolesi") is an extinct species of bird of prey - the only one of its genus known to date - probably related to harriers. It probably resembled a cross between the Secretary Bird and Crested Caracara, and lived during the Early Miocene (23-16 million years ago).

Its remains were found in Riversleigh (Queensland), Australia. The Flexiraptor is only known from a tibiotarsus (ankle bone). However, this is of most peculiar construction, allowing the leg to be swiveled backwards and sideways. The bird was thus well-adapted to reach into holes and crevices and extract prey. The vernacular name "Flexiraptor" was coined to reflect this ability.

References

* Boles, W. E. (1993a): "Pengana robertbolesi", a peculiar bird of prey from the Tertiary of Riversleigh, northwestern Queensland, Australia. "Alcheringa" 17: 19-26.
* Boles, W. E. (1993b): The fabulous flexiraptor: a bird with a strange twist. "Riversleigh Notes" 22: 2-3.

External links

* [http://www.lostkingdoms.com/facts/factsheet23.htm Australian Museum - Flexiraptor factsheet]