Interestingly, protofeathers were also found on the metatarsus (upper part of the foot).
The plantar (lower) surface of the metatarsus is naked.
The anterior legs have three pairs of long spines on the ventral surface of the tibia and two pairs of spines on the metatarsus.
A warty tubercle is found just before the junction of the thigh and shank (sub-articular tubercle) and two moderate ones are on the shank (metatarsus).
The short metatarsus and foot strength, however, would have been more similar to that of owls.
They are found mainly on the toes and metatarsus, but may be found further up on the ankle in some birds.
This gives lasting correction of the forefoot, preventing metatarsus adductus and foot inversion.
This allows support to be placed where necessary, especially in the forefoot (metatarsus and toes) and heel.
