Feathers existed, but likely for display and insulation, not flight. There is no anatomical evidence to suggest that velociraptors engaged in gliding.
Feathers for Display and Insulation: Why Velociraptors Didn't Take to the Air
This distinction highlights that while close relatives experimented with aerial locomotion, the velociraptor lineage did not evolve the necessary traits. This strategy involves jumping from a height and using specialized membranes or skin flaps to increase drag and control descent.
The muscles attached to these bones would have been configured for pulling and tearing, not for the complex flapping motion of a wing. The bones were robust and built for leverage and grasping prey, rather than the lightweight, elongated structure required for powered flight.
Feathers for Display and Insulation, Not for Flight or Gliding
Their physical build, limb structure, and lack of appropriate feather arrangement for wing function confirm they moved exclusively on the ground. The muscles attached to these bones would have been configured for pulling and tearing, not for the complex flapping motion of a wing.
More About Do velociraptors fly
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More perspective on Do velociraptors fly can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
