JOURNAL ARTICLE

First birds molted their feathers much like modern ones, fossils show.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2024. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Tamisiea, Jack 3 of 3

Abstract

A new study of fossils reveals that an early bird species called Confuciusornis molted its feathers in a similar way to modern songbirds. This finding suggests that Confuciusornis was adept at flying, as molting helps birds maintain their aerodynamic capabilities. Feathers originated about 250 million years ago, and a subset of carnivorous dinosaurs and prehistoric bird precursors evolved complex feathers made of keratin. The study also suggests that molting in these early birds may not have occurred annually and could have corresponded to growth spurts. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2024/07, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Anatomy and Physiology
  • Publication Date:2024
  • Accession Number:178278184
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