Some details of hand skeleton morphology of the early cretaceous bird confuciusornis (Confuciusornis sanctus: Confuciusornithidae) and their morpho-functional interpretation

Some details of hand skeleton morphology of the Early Cretaceous bird Confuciusornis sanctus are described. The leading role of the third digit in progressive adaptation to flight is mentioned. Traces of insertion of at least two primaries to the proximal phalanx of the digit mentioned are reported for the first time. Limited use by Confuciusornis its forelimbs for climbing in canopies is hypothesized. Ritual role of the enlarged claw of the second digit is possible.