A Brief History On The Origin And Evolution Of Birds With Ashley Hall, Outreach Program Manager, Museum Of The Rockies

Take flight through time in this fascinating lecture that traces the origin and evolution of birds from their dinosaur ancestors to the diverse species we see today. Beginning with the dramatic rise of the theropod dinosaurs, we’ll explore the pivotal adaptations—such as feathers, flight, and changes in metabolism—that led to the rise of modern birds. Discover how these creatures survived mass extinctions, evolved new forms of locomotion, and adapted to a wide range of environments, from the skies to the oceans. We’ll also delve into the latest scientific discoveries, including cutting-edge fossil evidence and genetic research, that have reshaped our understanding of avian evolution. From the first feathered dinosaurs to the global avian family tree, this lecture will show how birds are not just descendants of ancient creatures but also living proof of evolutionary ingenuity. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, a dinosaur enthusiast, or just curious about the natural world, this lecture will leave you with a new appreciation for the remarkable creatures soaring above us—and a deeper understanding of how they came to rule the skies.

About Our Speaker

Ashley Hall is a paleontologist, naturalist, and Outreach Program Manager at the Museum of the Rockies. She earned a BA in Anthropology and Animal Behavior from Indiana University Bloomington in 2007 and has spent 16 years as an informal educator in museums and zoos, including the L.A. Zoo, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, La Brea Tar Pits, and Cleveland Museum of Natural History. A passionate science communicator, Ashley has authored three children’s books and runs a free virtual program on Fridays called Fossil Friday. In her spare time, you can find her (crouched with binoculars and a phone with the e-bird app open) birding in Bozeman’s many birding hotspots.

The in-person meeting will be held Monday, January 13, 2025 at Hope Lutheran Church, 2152 West Graf (off S. 19th). A social begins at 6:30 PM; the program begins at 7:00 PM. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own reusable cups.

For virtual attendance, please register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4451044515100506716

Attendees—whether in person or virtual—are encouraged to share their bird sightings at this and every monthly program.

SAS monthly programs are free and open to the public, featuring a special guest speaker the 2nd Monday of each month, September through May. For more information, contact Ken Sinay at [email protected].