Core Viewpoint - The discovery of the Chicago Archaeopteryx, the 14th specimen of Archaeopteryx, provides significant insights into the evolution of birds from dinosaurs, particularly in terms of skull evolution and flight adaptations [1][3]. Group 1: Research Findings - The Chicago specimen is noted as the best-preserved Archaeopteryx specimen to date, especially the skull, which holds immense research value [3]. - This specimen, collected by the Field Museum in 2022, is the smallest known Archaeopteryx, approximately the size of a pigeon, and retains rare soft tissues such as skin, toe pads, and feathers [3][4]. - High-precision CT scanning and 3D reconstruction revealed that the skull structure of the specimen indicates a transitional phase between non-avian dinosaurs and more flexible avian skulls [4]. Group 2: Implications for Evolutionary Biology - The preserved toe pad morphology suggests that Archaeopteryx may have had good ground locomotion capabilities, indicating a more diverse lifestyle than previously understood [4]. - The Chicago specimen is the first known Archaeopteryx to exhibit tertiary flight feathers, which may have evolved to enhance flight efficiency, marking a significant innovation not seen in non-avian dinosaurs [4]. - The research highlights the potential of advanced techniques in paleobiology, particularly in the study of ancient birds, showcasing the capabilities of 3D reconstruction and soft tissue identification [4].