• Mark: 2 hypotheses
○ In a high level of activity
§ Metabolism rate: regulated by animal
□ Insulatiob purpose: retain heat and energy
§ Feather: insulation mechanism
○ Feather: courtship & social interaction
§ Male bird: attract potential mate
§ Female bird: physical characteristic
□ Bright feather color & elaborate feather display
§ Feather: reproduction purpose
• Mark's research: which is more likely
○ Gaps: fossil record