Miocene Toothgull

Pelagornis miocaenus is known from Aquitanian (Early Miocene) sediments – formerly believed to be of Middle Miocene age – of Armagnac (France). The only Pelagornis birds in Mediterranean regions live here.

Etymology

In Greek and Latin words for pelagic bird.

Physical Appearance

A relative of modern seagulls, Pelagornis is instantly recognizable from the more common terns and gulls by its size, than the albatross. With a wingspan rivaling Argentavis, it also possesses a beak filled with tooth-like projections for snagging fish, as well as webbed feet for paddling upon the ocean surface when it must rest its wings.

Abilities

Pelagornis uses their sharp tooth-like or knob-like extensions of the bill's margin, called "pseudo-teeth," which would have enabled the living animal to better grip and grasp slippery prey and piercing unprotected parts of the body. Using the water vomiting refers to the use of emesis to defend against ingested pathogens or, in animals, against predators.

Weaknesses

Because of their ability to fly, ranged or magic weaponry is recommended.

Ecology

When on water, Pelagornis lands safely and becomes a fast swimmer.

Behavior

Wild Pelagornis are naturally shy creatures that will fly away at the first sign of conflict.

Distribution and Habitat

It occurs in France and nearby countries in Mediterranean Sea in Middle Miocene.

Movement Pattern: Full Migrant
Individual Type: Solo and Gather
Population Trend: Stable
Population: ???
Locomotion: Versatile
Habitat: Taiga; Montane Grasslands and Shrublands; Temperate Coniferous Forests; Temperate Broadleaf and Mixed Forests; Temperate Deciduous Forests; Temperate Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands; Subtropical Coniferous Forests; Subtropical Moist Broadleaf Forests; Subtropical Dry Broadleaf Forests; Subtropical Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands; Salt Flats; Stone Forest; Tropical Coniferous Forests; Tropical Moist Broadleaf Forests; Tropical Dry Broadleaf Forests; Tropical Grasslands; Tropical Savannas and Shrublands; Mediterranean Forests, Woodlands, and Scrub; Mushroom Forests; Mushroom Fields; Deserts and Xeric Shrublands; Badlands; Flooded Grasslands and Savannas; Swamp; Bayous/Billabongs; Riparian; Wetland; Mangrove Forest; Cold Bamboo Forests; Tropical Bamboo Forests; Air-breathing Coral Reefs; Graveyard Vale; Mountain; Sky; Warm River; Cold River; Lukewarm River; Subterranean River; Warm Pond; Cold Pond; Aquifer; Warm Littoral; Cold Littoral; Warm Intertidal; Cold Intertidal.
Earth:
- Extinct: France; Italy; Monaco; San Marino; Spain; Portugal