Fossil Evidence Reveals Predation Between Caiman and Terror Bird

A recent fossil discovery in La Venta, Colombia, has unveiled a significant trophic interaction between two prehistoric giants: the terror bird and the caiman. This remarkable finding, dating back 15 million years, highlights the complex dynamics of prehistoric ecosystems and provides insights into the predation risks faced by even the most formidable predators.

The terror bird, belonging to the Phorusrhacidae family, was one of the largest carnivorous birds of its time, known for its intimidating presence and predatory skills. However, new evidence suggests that these so-called 'super predators' were not invulnerable. A leg bone from a terror bird, identified as a tibiotarsus, was found bearing distinct bite marks indicative of predation by a large caiman species, likely *Purussaurus neivensis*, which thrived in the region during the Miocene epoch.

Lead author Andrés Link, a researcher at the Universidad de Los Andes in Bogotá, expressed his astonishment at the findings. "At first, we were thrilled by the discovery of a bird of terror in Northern South America, after more than 100 years of research in the Miocene site of La Venta. However, examining the tibiotarsus of the terror bird revealed intriguing marks that suggested tooth marks. It was difficult to think this super predator had been predated or scavenged by a large caiman!" Link stated.

The fossilized bone exhibits four clear pits on its cortical surface, suggesting that the bird either succumbed to the caiman's attack or was already deceased when the caiman interacted with it. This evidence is significant because it offers a rare glimpse into direct predator-prey interactions preserved in the fossil record. Such findings are exceedingly uncommon, making this discovery particularly valuable for paleontologists.

The implications of this research extend beyond the individual species involved. It suggests that the interactions between *Purussaurus neivensis* and terror birds were part of a more intricate web of ecological relationships in ancient ecosystems. This discovery sheds light on the dietary habits of *Purussaurus*, indicating that it may have included terror birds among its prey, thereby expanding our understanding of its ecological role.

Moreover, Link emphasized the broader implications of the study, stating, "This article provides evidence of the broad diet of the large caiman *Purussaurus neivensis*, and it highlights how terrestrial vertebrates in La Venta must have navigated their environment to avoid predation. Just like modern herbivores that frequent waterholes, these ancient creatures likely faced similar threats from aquatic predators."

The study not only enhances our comprehension of Miocene ecosystems but also serves as a reminder of the precariousness of life in the ancient world. The findings were published in the journal *Biology Letters*, contributing to scientific discourse regarding predator-prey dynamics in extinct ecosystems.

Overall, this discovery prompts further inquiries into the behavior, ecology, and interactions of ancient species, fostering a deeper understanding of the evolutionary pathways that have shaped the biodiversity we observe today. As researchers continue to explore La Venta and other fossil-rich sites, more revelations about the past are likely to emerge, painting a fuller picture of life during the Miocene epoch.