By Researchers from Montana State University’s Museum believe they found conclusive proof regarding the evolution of the dinosaurs into birds. Apparently, the flight capability came from the extended usage of the killer claws found in dinosaurs like the Velociraptor or the Deinonychus, claws that eventually evolved into wings.
The information published in December 14th describes how the comparisons between modern birds of prey lead to the discovery of new behaviors for the carnivorous dinosaurs that featured those killer-claws.
The studies conducted so far, regarding the dromaeosaurids such as the Velociraptor, completely changed their perception, including habitats, evolution and ecology. Dromaeosaurids (known for their enlarged sickle-claw of the foot) were somewhat similar to the modern birds. Studies made in the past suggested that the sickle-claws were used to slash and climb, but the new studies suggest that these claws were used to latch and hold. This theory was proposed after observing the similar enlarged claw that can be found at modern hawks.
Apparently, such a strategy was only required when the prey’s size was significant and the predator needed to immobilize its target in order to assure a meal that is still struggling while being eaten. Also, the claws’ functional anatomy was more suited for grasping rather than running.
Similar analogies can be made in order to explain the capability of flight, the low body-weight and even the strength of the feet. After closely investigating all those similarities between dinosaurs and birds, scientists believe they opened the way for new ideas that can firmly confirm the evolution of the dinosaurs into modern birds. The topic itself is quite amazing for both experts and amateurs, all trying to understand how the dinosaurs faced extinction, after ruling the planet for several million years.
Luckily, all proof so far indicates that the dinosaurs didn’t just disappear, but they evolved into modern day birds.