The Field Museum in Chicago is home to the incredible Archaeopteryx fossil, one of the most important discoveries in paleontology. This fossil showcases a creature that had feathers, hollow bones, clawed wings, 50 tiny teeth, and a long bony tail, making it one of the earliest known dinosaurs that also falls under the category of a bird. Dr. Julian Siggers, the president and CEO of the Field Museum, describes Archaeopteryx as a missing link in the evolutionary chain between dinosaurs and birds.
Unveiled to the media on Monday, the Chicago Archaeopteryx is only the 13th fossil of its kind known to exist. Scientists at the museum believe it to be the earliest bird known to science, providing evidence that supports Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Paleontologist Jingmai O’Connor expressed her amazement at the well-preserved feathers and neck vertebrae of the Chicago Archaeopteryx, which was unearthed by quarry workers in 1990 and has been in private collector’s hands since then.
The fossil was carefully revealed by three preparators over 1,400 hours, due to its delicate nature with hollow bones that required careful handling to prevent collapse. With the help of a coalition of supporters, the museum was able to acquire the fossil two years ago and begin the delicate process of extracting it from a top layer of rock using only hand tools and dental drills. The Chicago Archaeopteryx will be on temporary public display starting Tuesday for one month before being taken down for further research and preparation for its permanent exhibit in the fall.
The remarkable fossil discovery at the Field Museum is a testament to the ongoing research and discoveries that continue to shed light on the history and evolution of the creatures that once roamed the Earth.