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Hind wings gave four-winged dino flight control

Much-debated rear wings could have given Microraptor extra help in airborne maneuvers

By Susan Milius

- More than 2 years ago

RALEIGH, N.C. — A rethink of four-winged dinosaurs suggests that the much-debated hind wings stayed tucked under the body until deployed in the air for tight turns to dodge branches or chase prey.

GREAT CORNERS Four-winged dinosaurs didn’t have to splay out all their limbs to benefit from the rear pair, instead using the hind legs to maneuver in tight turns.