Archaeopteryx
Period Late Jurassic (150 million years ago)
Diet Carnivore
Length 0.5 meters (1.6 feet)
Weight 0.8-1 kg
The Ancient Wing
Archaeopteryx is one of the most important fossils ever discovered, providing crucial evidence for the evolution of birds from theropod dinosaurs.
Unique Features
- Feathers: Had fully developed feathers like modern birds
- Teeth: Unlike modern birds, it had sharp teeth
- Clawed Wings: Three-fingered claws on its wings
- Long Bony Tail: Unlike modern birds which have short tails
Evolutionary Significance
Archaeopteryx represents a transitional form, showing how dinosaurs evolved into birds over millions of years.