SMRTR Science & EngineeringDec 17, 2025Nautilus

The Feathery Dinosaurs That Couldn’t Fly

SMRTR summary

Scientists analyzed nine exceptionally preserved fossils of Anchiornis huxleyi, a feathered dinosaur from 160 million years ago, discovering evidence of chaotic feather molting patterns that indicate these creatures couldn't fly. Unlike flying birds that molt systematically to maintain flight capability, Anchiornis showed irregular feather replacement similar to flightless modern birds like ostriches.

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