Specimens of Archaeopteryx length. These hindlimb proportions agree roughly with those of the London specimen. The claw arc of the central pedal digit is about 120 degrees, which is close to the average for all "Archaeopteryx" specimens. This arc is also close to the average for that in perching birds and is well above the mean for ground-dwelling birds, despite conclusions against perching habits based on the short hallux and weak flexor tubercles. The remarkably preserved plumage is one of many features that sets the Berlin specimen head-and-coracoids above all other "Archaeopteryx" fossils to date. Clear feather impressions are visible on both wings,
Specimens of Archaeopteryx under his control and full exposed, his subsequent study and monograph was the first comprehensive description of an "Archaeopteryx" specimen that had not been disarticulated. The Berlin specimen of "Archaeopteryx" is to date the most complete existing specimen of this genus, and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful fossils in the world. Its well-preserved skeleton and the preserved feathers of its wings and tail have made it of considerable interest to a wide range of scientific study, beginning with Wilhelm Dames and Carl Vogt shortly following its discovery. This iconic fossil preserves the animal with an articulated