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Feathers, Longisquama & Archaeopteryx



Hello all ->

I was currently discussing with a friend the evolution of feathers.  I
seem to recall hearing somewhere that a sort of modified scale that
could indicate an early development toward feathers was found in fossils
of Longisquama (the lizard-like critter with what look like upside-down
hockey sticks along its back).  Does anyone have any info on this? 
Anyone know where Longisquama fits in the grand scheme of things?  Is it
considered to be an ornithodire (is it even an archosaur)?  Are there
any other records of such "proto-feathers" in the fossil record?

Also - is there a significant difference between the feathers on
Archaeopteryx and those on birds today?

Any light you could shed on the topic would be appreciated.
Matt.