Parvavis

Parvavis was the first Mesozoic bird ever found in southern China.12

When Parvavis was discovered, it was the smallest known enantiornithine bird, even smaller than Iberomesornis.1

The fossil of Parvavis includes parts of the skull, spine, tail, and even impressions of its feathers in the rock.1

Scientists studied the bone structure and found that Parvavis was nearly full-grown when it died, but it was still surprisingly tiny.12

Parvavis had a special feature: the bottom joint of its second metatarsal (a foot bone) was wider than the joints of its other metatarsals.1

The claw on the fourth toe of Parvavis was reduced, meaning it was smaller than the other toe claws.1