Anchiornis

Anchiornis (meaning “near bird”) is a genus of small, feathered theropod dinosaurs from the Late Jurassic of what is now China. The type species, Anchiornis huxleyi, was named in 2009 for fossils found in the Tiaojishan Formation in Liaoning Province. Anchiornis is placed in the family Anchiornithidae, a group of early bird‑like theropods that are closely related to the origin of birds.

The animals were small, about the size of a modern chicken, with long forelimbs bearing extensive wing feathers and a long, feathered tail. Fossils preserve a comprehensive coat of feathers on the arms, legs, and tail, showing that complex plumage was widespread among early paravians. The skeleton combines several bird‑like and theropod traits, contributing to discussions about how flight‑related features and the origin of birds evolved.

Some specimens preserve evidence of coloration patterns inferred from preserved melanosomes, and reconstructions suggest contrasting colors on the wings and body. While exact patterns vary among specimens, these findings illustrate that coloration for display or camouflage was present in early feathered dinosaurs and provides insight into the appearance and ecology of Anchiornis.

Anchiornis occupies a notable position in discussions of feather evolution and the early diversification of bird‑like dinosaurs in the Late Jurassic, helping to illuminate the mosaic of traits that preceded true birds.