Septencoracias is an extinct genus of Coraciiform bird from Denmark. The type species, S. morsensis, was named in 2016, and a second species, S. simillimus, was named in 2024.
History[]
The genus is based on a partial and eroded skeleton. The skeleton was discovered in rock layers from the Fur Formation dating to about 54 million years ago in the Eocene epoch. The holotype was discovered by geologists in an abandoned quarry.
Description[]
Septencoracias was larger than modern rollers. However it was still a very small bird with a length of about 25 centimeters. It’s head was large compared to its body size and had a slightly curved beak. Relatives of Septencoracias have been found with fish in their skeleton, indicating that the family may have preyed upon fish.
Classification[]
Septencoracias is part of an extinct family called Primobucconidae. Primobucconids are part of the extant order Coraciiformes, which includes king fishers and rollers. In 2016, Septencoracias was classified as the sister taxon of Primobucco.