New dinosaur species discovered in China

File: CNN

Scientists have discovered a new dinosaur species in northwestern China. 

At a paleontological location that has produced over 100 fossils of Early Cretaceous birds, Jian changmaensis was found. The species was a member of the small feathered dromaeosaurid dinosaur subgroup Microraptorinae. Additionally, the fossil is the youngest known Microraptor specimen, indicating that these feathered dinosaurs lived longer than previously believed. Researchers may even be able to learn more about how microraptors moved between trees using their wings thanks to the well-preserved fossil.

Up until now, the Jehol Group, a collection of geological layers in northeastern China about 2,000 kilometers from Changma, had been the location of all definitive Microraptorinae individuals. Jian changmaensis extends the group's verified range into northwest China.

Beyond merely identifying a new species, the discovery of Jian changmaensis has significance. Scientists can better comprehend what made the species of birds that survived so unique by learning about early birds and their close non-bird dinosaur cousins.