Q:
What Is the Scientific Name for Birds?
A:
Quick Answer
The scientific name for the group encompassing modern birds is Aves. Aves is the only surviving branch of the dinosaur family tree. They are a side branch of the maniraptors, a group of bipedal feathery dinosaurs that included Velociraptor.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
The name Aves is the Latin word for birds. Birds are considered part of Maniraptora because all members of that group have a specialized wrist bone found in no other animals. In birds, this bone allows them to flap their wing powerfully; its use in other maniraptors is obscure, but in some species it also was likely used for flight. Although birds are dinosaurs, they are still a distinct group within the dinosaur family tree and thus retain their special scientific name, Aves.
Learn more about BirdsRelated Questions
-
Q:
What Is the Scientific Name for Algae?
A: Algae includes a very big group of very different organisms, each with its own scientific name. For example, the scientific name of green algae is Pediastr... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Do Newborn Birds Eat?
A: Most birds feed tiny insects, worms and fish to their babies to fuel their growth. Some birds, such as pigeons, parrots and penguins, regurgitate a small a... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Eats Birds?
A: While birds have many predators, the most common predators of birds are other birds. Other consumers of birds include mammals like large cats, snakes, inse... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Foods Should Be Given to a Mynah Bird?
A: Pet mynah birds should be fed a diet consisting primarily of fruits and vegetables. Apples, strawberries, blueberries, pears, grapes, bananas and mangos ar... Full Answer >Filed Under:
