Beak Variation

Based largely on malformation and variation in the beaks of passerine birds (corvid and otherwise), this is an example of positive and negative mutation in action. Pictured are the three most common beak "malformations" in dinosauroids. In the case of the individual with the elongated beak with a pronounced space between mandible and maxilla, this "malformation" may well help him survive better - his uniquely tactile beak may make him a better tool-maker, and the gap may give him better grip on beak-held tools. In contrast, the individuals with deformed beaks 1, 4, and 5 would be unable to hold the weapons which their bands need to kill their food, thus making him a liability to the group. Such an individual would most likely be sold into slavery by their family at an early age...