Posts by: Craig Kelley

Archaeopteryx: The World’s First Bird (Probably)

  Archaeopteryx represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of birds, which have come to inhabit every corner of the earth.  This is a species which conveys the transitional period from therapod dinosaurs to early birds.  Archaeopteryx fully maintains many of the characteristics of its running dinosaur relatives, such as sharp teeth and a long bony […]

Pros and Cons of the Avian Skeletal System

Over the course of millions of years, birds have evolved a particularly unique skeletal system among the animal world.   Naturally, much of the difference between mammalian and avian skeletal systems arises due to most birds’ capability of flight.  Granted, flight is a highly advanced evolutionary adaptation; however, birds sacrifice a good deal to achieve it.  […]