The Life of Birds: Evolution and Diversity of Birds

Birds evolved from reptiles around 225 million years ago, with Protoavis as an early intermediary. Archaeopteryx, the oldest known bird with feathers, lived 150 million years ago. Modern birds retain some reptilian traits and inhabit diverse environments. There are nearly 9,000 bird species, classified into orders like Passeriformes, Piciformes, Charadriiformes, Falconiformes, and Anseriformes.

What is the significance of Protoavis in the study of bird evolution?

Describe the features that Archaeopteryx possessed that made it significant in the evolutionary history of birds.

How do modern birds still exhibit reptilian features?

Discuss the diversity of bird species and their habitats as mentioned in the text.

What are some examples of bird orders mentioned in the text, and what types of birds do they include?