Anchiornis

Name meaning:

Almost a bird

Period of life:

165–153 mya

Period:

Jurassic period

Habitat:

Mountain forests

Taxonomy:

Theropods

Countries:

Jurassic period Anchiornis | 3D Dinopedia

Liopleurodon

Allosaurus

Anchiornis ()

Anchiornis was one of the most remarkable feathered dinosaurs, living around 160 million years ago in what is now China. This small Jurassic reptile became an important link between ancient dinosaurs and the first birds.

At first, Anchiornis was considered a dwarf among dinosaurs: the first specimen suggested a body length of only 34 centimetres and a weight of about 200 grams. Later, however, it became clear that this individual was juvenile. More recent estimates indicate that adults reached 60–62 centimetres in length and weighed between 600 grams and one kilogram — still small, but no longer exceptionally so for its time.

The name «Anchiornis» is translated from Latin as «ancient bird». And indeed, this dinosaur showed many features that brought it closer to modern birds. Its legs resembled those of a chicken, and its forelimbs were wing-like. At the same time, scientists believe that Anchiornis probably could not fly: its hind limbs were too long — a typical trait of a ground runner — while its wings were relatively short.

Its entire body, including even the toes, was covered in feathers, with only the tip of the snout remaining bare. These feathers likely helped not only with thermoregulation, but also with display — perhaps playing a role in courtship behaviour or camouflage.

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