pterygius

Pterygius is a genus of small, primitive birds that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 70 million years ago. The genus is known from a single species, Pterygius kochi, which was discovered in Germany. Pterygius is notable for its unique combination of features that make it one of the earliest known birds.

The fossil of Pterygius kochi consists of a partial skeleton, including parts of the skull, wings, and tail. The skull is relatively small and lacks the typical beak structure found in modern birds. Instead, it has a more primitive, tooth-like structure, suggesting that Pterygius may have fed on small invertebrates.

The wings of Pterygius are relatively short and broad, with long, finger-like digits. This wing structure is more similar to that of modern birds than to the wings of non-avian dinosaurs, indicating that Pterygius was likely capable of powered flight. The tail is also well-developed, with a long, feathered structure that may have helped with maneuverability in flight.

Pterygius is considered to be one of the earliest known birds, and its discovery has provided valuable insights into the evolution of flight in birds. The genus is classified within the order Archaeopterygiformes, which includes some of the earliest known birds. Despite its primitive features, Pterygius shares many similarities with modern birds, such as its wing structure and feathered tail, suggesting that the transition from non-avian dinosaurs to birds occurred relatively quickly.