In support of the theory of the serpentine origin of birds, Aristotle said, "For they say there are winged serpents in Ethiopia." That "they say" undoubtedly referred to the statement of Herodotus, who described a serpent similar to our water snake: "Its wings not feathered, but like those of bats."

See also:

• Pliny And The Eagle

From What Other Writers Said About Natural History And Fossils Of Ancient Animals