Researchers have uncovered a 17-18 million-year-old fossil of Menura tyawanoides, a large extinct songbird, in Boodjamulla National Park, Queensland. This species is identified as an ancestor of the modern lyrebird, renowned for its ability to imitate various sounds. The fossil's wrist bone structure indicates that Menura tyawanoides was primarily terrestrial with limited flight capabilities. It likely inhabited the dense understory of ancient tropical rainforests. This discovery is significant as it provides evidence of the deep evolutionary roots of Australia's unique songbirds and offers insights into how past climate changes have influenced current ecosystems. Experts emphasize the importance of this find in understanding potential future challenges for living species in Australia.