Did birds evolve from dinosaurs?
Scientists believe special reptiles began to develop bird-like characteristics towards the end of the dinosaur era. A species called Archaeopteryx had traits such as feathers that may have allowed it to fly. Inside those dinosaurs, scientists also discovered a wishbone (it’s big in the bird world). As we continue to discover more fossils, more species with feathers and small forelimbs are appearing in the evolutionary tree. Over time, bird species developed very efficient respiratory systems, circulatory systems, and the ability to keep warm. The body heat of reptiles changes with the temperature of the environment while birds are endotherms, regulating their own body temperature.
