1.2" Ornithocheirid Pterosaur Fossil Tooth Lower Cretaceous Elrhaz FM Niger Africa

Location: Elrhaz Formation, Niger, Africa

Weight: 0.2 Ounces 

Dimension: 1.2 Inches Long, 0.2 Inches Wide

Comes with a free Display.

The item pictured is the one you will receive.

Upper Cretaceous 96 Million Years Old

 Name: Pterosaur

Type: Carnivore

Size: 10 to 12 meters in length

Pterosaurs were a unique group of flying reptiles that ruled the skies during the Mesozoic Era, spanning the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods (228–66 million years ago). Unlike birds or bats, pterosaurs evolved flight independently, making them the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight. Their evolutionary adaptations allowed them to occupy ecological niches ranging from coastal hunters to inland predators.

The wings of pterosaurs were supported by an elongated fourth finger and a flexible membrane of skin, muscle, and connective tissue, which stretched to the hind limbs. This wing structure enabled both soaring and agile flight. Early pterosaur species had long tails and jaws filled with teeth, suited for catching fish or small prey. Later forms developed shorter tails and, in some cases, toothless beaks, allowing for greater aerodynamic efficiency and varied diets.

Their skeletons were hollow and lightweight, with thin bone walls and large muscle attachment areas, similar to birds. A keeled breastbone anchored powerful flight muscles, while an enlarged brain helped coordinate complex aerial movements, balance, and hunting strategies.

Pterosaurs varied widely in size, from small species comparable to modern birds to giants with wingspans exceeding 10 meters. Their diversity, specialized anatomy, and mastery of flight make them one of the most fascinating and well-studied groups of prehistoric reptiles.