What are the closest animals to dinosaurs

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Closest Animals to Dinosaurs

Dromaeosaurids: Closest Relatives to Birds

Feathered Dromaeosaurids and Bird Evolution

Dromaeosaurids, a group of theropod dinosaurs, are among the closest relatives to modern birds. These dinosaurs, often referred to as "feathered dinosaurs," provide significant insights into the evolutionary transition from non-avian dinosaurs to birds. Notably, several dromaeosaurids from the Early Cretaceous period in Liaoning Province, China, exhibit features that closely resemble those of birds. For instance, the dromaeosaurid Zhenyuanlong suni, despite its large size and short arms, had large wings with pennaceous feathers on its arms and tail, similar to smaller, more bird-like dromaeosaurids.

Microraptor: Bridging the Size Gap

Microraptor zhaoianus, another dromaeosaurid from the Early Cretaceous Jiufotang Formation of Liaoning, China, is particularly noteworthy for being smaller than the earliest known bird, Archaeopteryx. This discovery is crucial as it eliminates the size disparity between early birds and their closest non-avian theropod relatives. Microraptor's bird-like features, such as its teeth, ischium, and foot morphology, further highlight the close evolutionary relationship between dromaeosaurids and birds.

Conclusion

In summary, dromaeosaurids, particularly those from the Early Cretaceous period in China, are among the closest relatives to modern birds. The feathered Zhenyuanlong suni and the small, bird-like Microraptor zhaoianus provide compelling evidence of the evolutionary link between non-avian dinosaurs and birds, showcasing the morphological and ecological transitions that occurred during this period. These findings underscore the significance of dromaeosaurids in understanding the origins of birds.