Four-winged dinosaur fossil found in China
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An international team of researchers discovered a 120-million-year-old Norellraptor barsboldi fossil in the Jiufotang Formation of Liaoning Province, China.
The dinosaur, a member of the microraptorines group, measured 57 centimeters in length and possessed well-preserved feathers on its arms and legs. The unique geological conditions of the Jiufotang Formation allowed for the exceptional preservation of soft tissues, revealing the animal was around three years old when it died.
Scientists observed the dinosaur had long plumes on both its forelimbs and hindlimbs, giving it a four-winged appearance. Analysis of its teeth indicates the Norellraptor was an agile, opportunistic hunter capable of complex aerial maneuvers to catch small prey. The discovery challenges previous understandings of flight evolution. Statistical analyses suggest changes in the dinosaur’s bones occurred in a different order than those seen in modern birds, indicating multiple evolutionary paths to flight existed.
Researchers are now using digital simulations to study how the Norellraptor moved and flew, hoping to learn more about its hunting techniques and behavior within its ancient environment.
