TOEFL - Life Science - Animals

Archaeopteryx

An extinct, ancient bird-like creature with both avian and reptilian features; name means "ancient wing".

Fossilized

Turned into a fossil through the process of mineral replacement over time.

Quarry

A place where stone or other materials are extracted from the earth.

Paleontologist

A scientist who studies fossils and ancient forms of life.

Stroke of luck

An unexpected and fortunate event.

Fragile

Easily broken or damaged.

Fossil record

The collection of all known fossils and their placement in rock formations and layers.

Exquisite

Extremely beautiful and delicate; showing exceptional detail.

Fine-grained

Describes rock composed of small, fine particles.

Impressions

Marks or shapes made on a surface by pressure, such as feather patterns in fossils.

Ornithologist

A scientist who studies birds.

Bias

A personal tendency or opinion that may prevent impartial judgment.

Ancestor

An earlier species from which later species evolved.

Reptile

A cold-blooded vertebrate such as a snake or lizard, often with scaly skin.

Stubby

Short and thick or blunt.

Claws

Curved, pointed nails found on the feet or hands of some animals.

Wing fingers

Finger bones in the wings of birds or bird-like creatures, sometimes visible in fossils.

Classified (as)

Assigned to a specific group or category.

Evolutionary relationships

Connections between organisms based on how they have evolved from common ancestors.

Link

A connecting element; something that joins or relates things.

Developing the ability to fly

An important stage in the evolution of birds from ground-dwelling species.

Conclusive evidence

Definitive proof that supports one side of an argument.

Insulation

Material or features that keep something warm, like feathers trapping body heat.

Display (in animals)

The use of physical features like feathers to attract a mate or intimidate rivals.

Compelling

Convincing; arousing interest or attention.