Re: Drinker and Oryctodromeus (was Re: Dinosaurs burrowed to keep warm)

[Dann Pigdon <dannj@alphalink.com.au>]

Lee Hall writes: 

> I've noticed that hawks have prominent 'palpebral' bones.  Anyone here
> have an idea as to the function(s) they provide?  Protection for
> large, bulbous eyes?  Muscle stabilization? 

Sounds like a good excuse for some speculatin'. My off-the cuff suggestions 
are: 

- To protect the eyes when plunging the beak into a carcass
- To help shield the eyes from sunlight (black colouration beneath the eyes 
would also help to eliminate glare from reflected sunlight)
- Perhaps the projections help to protect the eyes from turbulence during 
fast flight to enhance (or preserve) visual acuity (kind of like occular 
spoilers)
- All of the above
- None of the above 

Discuss in 500 words or less... :) 

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Dann Pigdon
GIS / Archaeologist         http://www.geocities.com/dannsdinosaurs
Melbourne, Australia        http://heretichides.soffiles.com
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