Microraptor
Scientific name: Microraptor zhaoianus Diet: Meat, fish, and the occasional large worms Projected natural lifespan: 10 years Length: 90 cm (3 feet) Weight: 1 kg (2.2 lbs) Locality: Liaoning, China (Jiufotang Formation); 120 Ma Exhibit: Jehol Aviary
About Known from hundreds of fossil specimens, Microraptor is one of the most well-known dromaeosaurids. It’s a small, agile animal about the size of a hawk. It’s most notable for having four wings: the legs as well as the arms have long, vaned feathers. The leg wings were probably used for stability in the air. Microraptor’s tail has a short fan at the end, and its body is covered in iridescent black feathers, structured like those in modern birds.
At Huxley We have a flock of 7 Microraptor in the Jehol Aviary. They’re kept in the third section of the aviary, separated from animals they might get into conflict with.
Notable Behavior You’d think they’d be good at flying, having four wings at all. And you’re right. They’re about as competent fliers as chickens. Might not sound very impressive, but they can fly, which is a wing up on most of its relatives. You’d also think they’d be rather ungainly on the ground with their large wings and leg feathers. But nope - somehow they manage to romp around just fine. The flock will often fearlessly approach visitors. You can let them get close to you, but please don’t touch them and please restrain your children. Microraptor bites aren’t very dangerous, but they hurt.
Keeper Notes Their gregariousness has led to a couple issues. Right now we’re trying to train them to only land on leather and not on random peoples’ arms and heads.