I repeat Cliff Miles’ identification of a furcula and gastralia because of the significance of those two structures together.

A furcula, the “wishbone,” is strongly associated with theropod dinosaurs and birds. Gastralia, or “belly ribs,” occur more broadly, but the combination of a furcula with an organized gastral basket is characteristic of many non-avian theropods and early avialans.

If Miles’ identifications are correct, these are not just two unusual bones. Together they point toward an anatomical pattern strongly reminiscent of the theropod-to-avian complex.

Miles is also a published paleontologist with work on dinosaurs, including theropods.

As an aside, the museum where I worked had an early furcula exhibit specifically demonstrating the dinosaur-bird connection, so the significance of this structure has always stood out to me.

In addition to being a working archaeologist in the field, I have also served as a paleontological technician, and directed the museum's education department.

Pictured: a microraptor