Archaeopteryx

Archaeopteryx is one of the most important fossils ever found. It had feathers and wings like a bird, but teeth and claws like a dinosaur. It lived about 150 million years ago. Scientists call it the link between dinosaurs and birds.

Half Dinosaur, Half Bird

Archaeopteryx was about the size of a crow. It had broad wings covered in feathers. But unlike modern birds, it had sharp teeth and a bony tail. It also had claws on its wings. These features made it look like a small dinosaur with feathers.

Could It Fly?

Scientists still debate how well Archaeopteryx could fly. It may have been able to flap its wings and fly short distances. Or it may have just glided from tree to tree. Its feathers were shaped like those of modern flying birds. It probably hunted small insects and lizards.

Fun Facts

• Only about 12 Archaeopteryx fossils have ever been found, all in Germany.
• Its name means "ancient wing" in Greek.
• The first feather fossil was found in 1861, the same year the first skeleton was discovered.

Did You Know?

Archaeopteryx helped prove that birds evolved from dinosaurs. When you see a sparrow or a chicken, you are looking at a living dinosaur relative!