The Archaeopteryx was a creature which developed in Jurassic times about 150 million years ago. It is an important link between reptiles and birds as it combines characteristics of both. It represents a vital evolutionary stage in the development of birds. Limestone slabs showing almost complete skeletons of Archaeopteryx have been found in Germany with the impression of feathers. It was a little larger than a pigeon and probably did not fly very well. It glided from one tree to another and could even climb using the clawed digits on its wings. Despite its rather fierce head it was not a bird of prey but lived on fruit and berries. Archaeopteryx comes from the Greek, meaning 'ancient wing'.
