Microraptor
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Microraptor's name translates to "small thief", which is an apt description. Known from hundreds of specimens, many of which are well-preserved, this is one of the most completely understood dromaeosaurs, and one of the most completely understood Cretaceous dinosaurs. Its fossils even show feather arrangement and coloration! Like all dromaeosaurs, Microraptor has a mouth with serrated teeth, sickle-shaped second toe claws, a long stiff balancing tail, and clawed wings. It lived in the trees of temperate forests in northeastern China around 120 million years ago. Microraptor is an opportunistic carnivore - preserved stomach contents include mammals, lizards, smaller birds, and fish. One of its most conspicuous features are the long feathers on both its arms and legs. These "four wings" make Microraptor an alright aerialist; you can observe our flock gliding. The leg wings are held down and back in flight. On the ground, though, the leg wings are really awkward. We have a flock of Microraptor in the Jehol Aviary, kept in their own section away from most of the other animals. The flock will fearlessly approach people. Don't get too close to them - they are nippy. Microraptor is one participant in the Flight Show. |
Scientific name Location Time Wingspan Length Diet |