These tooth-like processes are of two sizes, the
larger ones being comparable to canines; and they are all directed
forwards, and have a triangular or compressed conical form. From
a careful consideration of all the discovered remains of this
bird, Professor Owen concludes that "_Odontopteryx_ was a
warm-blooded feathered biped, with wings; and further, that it
was web-footed and a fish-eater, and that in the catching of
its slippery prey it was assisted by this Pterosauroid armature
of its jaws." Upon the whole, _Odontopteryx_ would appear to be
most nearly related to the family of the Geese (_Anserinoe_)
or Ducks (_Anatidoe_); but the extension of the bony substance
of the jaws into tooth-like processes is an entirely unique
character, in which it stands quite alone.
[Illustration: Fig. 227.--Skull of _Odontopteryx toliapicus restored.
(After Owen.)]
The known _Mammals_ of the Mesozoic period, as we have seen,
are all of small size; and with one not unequivocal exception,
they appear to be referable to the order of the Pouched Quadrupeds
(_Marsupials_), almost the lowest group of the whole class of
the Mammalia. In the Eocene rocks, on the other hand, numerous
remains of Quadrupeds have been brought to light, representing
most of the great Mammalian orders now in existence upon the
earth, and in many cases indicating animals of very considerable
dimensions.
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