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The fossilized elongated feathers of Microraptor's sexy tail.
Microraptor reconstruction
(Image credit: Science/AAAS)
Microraptor Reconstruction, with four wings and elongated tail feathers.
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Microraptor illustration
(Image credit: Jason Brougham/University of Texas)
Artist's illustration of a Microraptor with iridescent plumage.
Two Microraptor illustration
(Image credit: Jason Brougham/University of Texas)
Artist's illustration of two Microraptor with iridescent plumage.
Three Microraptor illustration
(Image credit: Jason Brougham/University of Texas)
Artist's illustration of three Microraptor with iridescent plumage.
Early Birds Had Dinosaur Feet
(Image credit: G. Mayr/Senckenberg)
Image of the skeleton with wing and tail feather impressions of the tenth specimen of the first known bird, Archaeopteryx. The new specimen provides important details on the feet and skull of these birds and strengthens the widely but not universally accepted argument that modern birds arose from dinosaurs.
Jennifer Welsh is a Connecticut-based science writer and editor and a regular contributor to Live Science. She also has several years of bench work in cancer research and anti-viral drug discovery under her belt. She has previously written for Science News, VerywellHealth, The Scientist, Discover Magazine, WIRED Science, and Business Insider.
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