DINO-BIRDS

Discoveries in China shows various species of dinosaurs had feathers. The fossils dated about 125 million years. Discoveries of dinosaurs like, Caudipteryx, Microraptor, Beipiaosaurus, Sinornithosaurus, Mei, Dilong, Incisivosaurus, Sinosauropteryx and even Psittacosaurus, an early ancestor of Triceratops. Not all of these 'dino-birds' could use its feathers for flight. Unlike Microraptor and perhaps Sinornithosaurus. Their fossils are very-well preserved. The fossil of Mei, the dinosur with the shortest name, was discovered curled up in a sleeping posture, depending on its name, "soundly-sleepind dragon". The flight of Microraptor was more of gliding from tree to tree rather than airborn sky flyers. Larger "dino-birds" ,like Beipiaosaurus, might used its feathers for it to keep cool. But scientist thought the main usage of the feathers are for display, whether for attraction or defensive. These discoveries also gives scientist the opportunity to connect the line-wire between birds and dinosaurs. For more information go to BBC-Planet Dinosaur Episode 2: Feathered Dragons.