The feature that links birds to reptiles in evolution is the possession of
Answer Details
The feature that links birds to reptiles in evolution is the possession of scales. Scales are bony or horny plates that cover the skin of reptiles and birds. Although birds have feathers, which are not found in reptiles, both birds and reptiles evolved from a common ancestor that had scales. Over time, some descendants of this common ancestor evolved feathers for various reasons, such as insulation, flight, or display, while others retained scales or evolved other adaptations. Thus, the possession of scales is a shared ancestral trait that helps to connect birds and reptiles in the tree of life.