Earth Science: Vertebrates – Aves The ability to fly sets birds apart from other vertebrates. They are remarkably adapted for flight and display impressive capabilities in the air, often flying at speeds of 15-50 mph (24-80 km/h) Birds are distiguished by being the only vertebrates with feathers. Furthermore, not only can birds fly, but they … Read more
Earth Science: Biology – Animals – Reptiles REPTILES date from 300 million years ago. when three evolutionary lines diverged: One became turtles and tortoises, another dinosaurs, lizards, snakes, crocodiles, and birds. The third became mammals Reptiles include snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodiles, and the extinct dinosaurs. They have been able to successfully live on land because … Read more
Earth Science: Vertebrates – Amphibians Amphibians are descendants of the first vertebrates to move out of water onto land. Their lives still reflect that heritage: they spend their early life (larval phase) in water and the rest on land. Amphibians include both tailed animals and tailless species and can be divided into two groups: Caudata … Read more
