Microraptor zhaoianus
Microraptor zhaoianus: The Four-Winged Shadow of the Forest
Hidden within the dense forests of what is now northeastern China, around 120 million years ago, Microraptor zhaoianus moved through the trees in a way no dinosaur had before—or since. About the size of a crow, this small dromaeosaur didn’t just have wings on its arms… it had them on its legs too. With four feathered limbs and a long, stabilizing tail, Microraptor could glide silently from branch to branch, ruling the canopy like a prehistoric shadow.
Unlike ground-dwelling raptors, Microraptor lived above it all. Its curved claws gripped bark, its wings caught the air, and its lightweight body allowed it to launch into controlled glides between trees. This wasn’t just another dinosaur—it was an experiment in flight, a glimpse into a world where evolution was still figuring out how to take to the skies.
DID YOU KNOW?
Four Wings, One Mystery
Microraptor is the only known dinosaur with full flight feathers on both its arms and legs—creating a unique four-winged gliding system.
Build Like a Pro: Downloadable Instructions
Lost your guide or just want a sneak peek before your kit arrives? No worries! Download step-by-step assembly instructions for all of our kits right here. Clear visuals, helpful tips, and everything you need to bring your prehistoric project to life—just a click away.
DID YOU KNOW?
Life in the Canopy
Its anatomy suggests it lived almost entirely in trees, hunting insects, birds, and small animals from above.
Bring Fossils to Life: Painting & Finishing Tips
Discover how to transform your 3D dino builds into museum-worthy masterpieces! In this hands-on video series, we’ll guide you through painting techniques, finishing tricks, and creative tips to help your fossils look like they just came out of the ground. Whether you're going for ultra-realistic or artistically bold, this section is your gateway to adding that final roar to your creation.
VIDEO COMING SOON!
DID YOU KNOW?
Evolution in Motion
This species represents a key moment in the evolution of flight, showing a completely different approach than modern birds.
Dino Art You’ll Adore!
Discover our dinosaurs like never before with stunning illustrations by the talented Clever Bunny Company—creators of adorable stickers, totes, and wooden necklaces featuring your favorite prehistoric pals!
Explore Our Featured Kits
Stegosaurus ‘Thagomizer’ Kit
$99
Step into the world of the Jurassic and hold a piece of prehistoric defense in your hands! This 3 piece life-size Stegosaurus tail spike
Deinonychus Foot & Leg Assembly Kit
$249
This 7-piece Deinonychus foot and lower leg kit builds into a museum‑worthy study of balance, tendon, and talon—a lethal little masterpiece for any desk.
Stegosaurus Back Plate Kit
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This 5 piece, life-size replica showcases every ridge and contour, offering a stunning conversation piece for any dino lover.
