In late 1996, a new Dinosaur fossil
was found which has brought birds and dinosaurs closer together than ever
thought possible. Along its neck, back, and tail, the small, 121 million
year old dinosaur appears to have a mane of downy feathers, a feature until
then seen only in birds. Again it was found in China, in a mudstone slab,
with a dark line running down its neck and backbone. Upon close inspection,
the line shows the impression of feather-like features about a half-centimetre
long. But confirming whether the impressions are feathers, scales or something
else may prove to be difficult. This discovery is still at its infancy
and will need more study and evidence in the future. The history of the
origin of birds has been rapidly unravelling within the last couple of
years and will continue. So, If you want the latest in paleontological
research and discovery check the resent magazines on these topics.
