Most paleontologists now believe that modern birds are the direct descendants of dinosaurs. Specifically, birds evolved from the group of theropods called the maniraptors. This conclusion is based on similarities in skeletal structure and on transitional fossils such as Archaeopteryx.

To avoid perpetuating a false distinction between dinosaurs and their feathered progeny, many paleontologists have started referring to birds as avian dinosaurs. Classical dinosaurs are, of course, non-avian dinosaurs.

So, it turns out that the rumors of the extinction of the dinosaurs have been exaggerated. They walk, hop and fly among us.

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