The creature lived 220 million years ago. The most recent discovery is the Microraptor zhaoianus , which some say is a feathered dinosaur. The recent discovery of a fossil of a feathered bird-like creature the size of a crow has prompted more discussion on whether birds evolved from dinosaurs , and on how they began to fly. Known as Microraptor zhaoianus , the creature lived 124 million years ago in northeastern China. Some press reports called it a feathered dinosaur.
Most scientists believe birds are descended from dinosaurs.
Other experts suggest birds and dinosaurs are separately descended from a common reptilian ancestor. However, Microraptor zhaoianus does seem similar both to modern birds and to advanced, meat-eating dinosaurs. A meat-eater with teeth, Microraptor zhaoianus did not fly. Its curved claws, similar to those of modern perching birds, were probably used to climb trees and to escape predators. It had feathers .