Ancient Raptors Soared Above Dinosaurs, Study Reveals

New fossil evidence suggests predatory birds hunted during the late Cretaceous period alongside dinosaurs.

Researchers have identified fossilized foot bones of two bird species from the late Cretaceous period, indicating they were capable of hunting prey.
The study, published in 'Plos One,' describes these birds as having strong, raptor-like feet similar to modern falcons and owls.
The fossils were discovered in Montana and are estimated to be between 66 to 68 million years old, just before the mass extinction event.
These birds, related to the Enantiornithes group, were widespread but went extinct alongside dinosaurs following an asteroid impact.
The species have been named Magnusavis ekalakaensis and Avisaurus darwini, based on the unique characteristics of their foot bones.