Archaeopteryx
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Tetanurae · Family: Aves
Identified by many as the first bird, Archaeopteryx resembles acoelurosaur but was covered in feathers. (Its remains were found in finegrained stone which still bore the clear impression of its feathers.) Archaeopteryxwas 3 feet (0.9 meters) long with sharp teeth, a long bony tail, and claw fingers on its wings. The only known member of this family was discovered in Bavaria, Germany. There is considerable debate whether Archaeopteryxand Mononychus should be classified as dinosaurs.
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Reference background: Natural History Museum, London — Dinosaurs; Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History — Dinosaurs; American Museum of Natural History — Dinosaurs & Fossils. Figures are typical published ranges; taxonomy follows the source era and modern consensus is noted where it differs. See our sources & fact-check policy.
Frequently asked questions
What does Archaeopteryx mean?
The name Archaeopteryx means “Ancient Wing”. It is pronounced ar-kee-OP-ter-ix.
When did Archaeopteryx live?
Archaeopteryx lived during the Late Jurassic.
Was Archaeopteryx a carnivore or a herbivore?
Archaeopteryx was a carnivore.
How big was Archaeopteryx?
Archaeopteryx was about 3 feet (0.9 meters) long, around 1 foot (0.3 meters) tall, weighing up to 2 lbs (0.9 kg).
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Aves family.
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