Exceptionally preserved fossil feathers and feather-like integumentary structures provide
valuable insights into the early evolution of feathers and flight, but taphonomic biases often …

Fossil claw sheaths of feathered dinosaurs and early birds from the Jehol Biota are not rare,
but little research has been done on their microstructures and taphonomy. In this study, we …

Laser-stimulated fluorescence (LSF) has seen increased use in palaeontological
investigations in recent years. The method uses the high flux of laser light of visible …

Colour plays a key role in the ecology of living birds and has undoubtedly been important
throughout their evolutionary history. Colour patterns influence all aspects of avian ecology …

Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is commonly used in geological and paleontological research to
extract organic fossils for morphological and chemical studies. However, during HF …

The last two decades have witnessed significant advances in our understanding of the
evolution of major avian characteristics [1–6]. In particular, the spectacular discoveries of …

Eggshells are biominerals that provide reproductive information of vertebrates. In
paleontology, fossil eggshells offer a unique chance to investigate the reproductive …

Eggshells are biominerals that provide reproductive information of vertebrates. In
paleontology, fossil eggshells offer a unique chance to investigate the reproductive …

Palaeocolour informs the ecology, physiology and behaviour of extinct animals. However,
there is room for improvement in palaeocolour reconstructions due to poor understanding of …

Abstract Laser-Stimulated Fluorescence (LSF) has seen increased use in palaeontological
investigations in recent years. The method uses the high ux of laser light to reveal details …