Millions of years ago, a fascinating and peculiar dinosaur roamed the vast lands of North America. Dubbed the “chicken from Hell,” this bird-like creature weighed approximately 170 pounds and possessed a toothless beak, along with a magnificent layer of feathers. Recently, scientists have identified this previously unknown prehistoric species through the examination of fossilized bones discovered in South Dakota’s Meade County, which forms part of the Hell Creek Formation. The findings were published in the renowned scientific journal PLOS One on January 24.
Initially, researchers from Oklahoma State University believed that the bones belonged to a larger dinosaur known as Anzu wyliei. However, further analysis through histology tests revealed that they had stumbled upon an entirely new species. This newfound creature belongs to the caenagnathid family, which falls under the oviraptorosaur group. Oviraptorosaurs were human-sized theropods with slender limbs and grasping hands, distinguished by their “unusual” skulls. They thrived in both North America and Asia during the Late Cretaceous period, which spanned from approximately 100 to 66 million years ago.
The newly discovered species has been named Eoneophron infernalis, translating to “Pharaoh’s dawn chicken from hell.” It possessed three-fingered hands adorned with sharp claws and boasted a short tail, distinguishing it from modern birds. However, determining its diet has proven to be a challenge. Oviraptorosaurs were known to be both herbivorous and omnivorous, but without teeth, it is difficult to ascertain which category this newfound species fell into. Kyle Atkins-Weltman, one of the study authors, suggests that it is likely they were omnivores, with some species leaning more towards carnivory or herbivory.
Understanding the social behavior of this ancient creature also poses a challenge due to the scarcity of caenagnathid fossils. Atkins-Weltman speculates that, similar to modern animals, different species within the caenagnathid family may have exhibited varying levels of sociality. Some could have been solitary, while others might have lived in flocks. Further research and discoveries are needed to shed light on this intriguing aspect of their behavior.
The study also indicates that caenagnathids flourished during the Late Cretaceous period before meeting their demise 66 million years ago during a catastrophic mass extinction event triggered by an asteroid impact. Atkins-Weltman emphasizes that there is still much to learn about this group of dinosaurs and urges researchers to delve deeper into their study. By raising awareness and generating enthusiasm for these remarkable “hell chickens,” he hopes to inspire more fieldwork and prevent the oversight of small dinosaurs.
The discovery of the “chicken from Hell” adds another fascinating chapter to our understanding of prehistoric life. It serves as a reminder that there is still so much left to uncover about the diverse and awe-inspiring creatures that once roamed our planet. As scientists continue to unearth new fossils and unravel the mysteries of the past, we are transported back in time, gaining invaluable insights into the rich tapestry of Earth’s history.
