Crossword Genius

Former flyer reporting dull conversation (5,3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

great auk

'former flyer' is the definition.
(extinct bird)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for great auk that I've seen before include "Extinct sea bird" , "Extinct seabird" , "Bird no longer around" , "Extinct flightless bird" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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