Evolution of birds extinction event 66 million years ago, giving rise to ostriches and relatives (Paleognathae), ducks and relatives (Anseriformes), ground-living fowl (Galliformes), and “modern birds” (Neoaves). Phylogenetically, Aves is usually defined as all descendants of the most recent common ancestor of a specific modern bird species (such as the house sparrow, "Passer domesticus"), and either "Archaeopteryx", or some prehistoric species closer to Neornithes (to avoid the problems caused by the unclear relationships of "Archaeopteryx" to other theropods). If the latter classification is used then the larger group is termed Avialae. Currently, the relationship between dinosaurs, "Archaeopteryx", and modern birds is still under
Specimens of Archaeopteryx first time with six other original fossils of "Archaeopteryx" at the "Munich Mineral Show" in October 2009. A first, quick look by scientists indicates that this specimen might represent a new species of "Archaeopteryx". It was found in a limestone bed that was a few hundred thousand years younger than the other finds. The eighth specimen of "Archaeopteryx" was officially announced in February 1996 at a special exhibition at Bavaria’s Naturkunde Museum. Its director, Matthias Mäuser, made the announcement to a surprised audience that the specimen had already been casted and that this was on display in the exhibit. Few