Where were long, pennaceous feathers specifically noted to adorn the lower hindlimbs of *Xiaotingia zhengi*?
Answer
The tibia and metatarsus
The feather coverage on *Xiaotingia* was comprehensive, extending beyond simple filaments. In detail regarding the hindlimbs, the text specifies that long, pennaceous feathers adorned the tibia and metatarsus, which are the lower leg bones. This extensive plumage on the legs, along with feathers on the femur reaching lengths up to 55 mm, suggests a heavy investment in integumentary structures that likely played a role in its suggested short-distance flight capabilities.
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