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

Location: Elrhaz Formation, Niger, Africa

Weight: 0.2 Ounces 

Dimension: 1.3 Inches Long, 0.2 Inches Wide

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Upper Cretaceous 96 Million Years Old

 Name: Pterosaur

Type: Carnivore

Size: 10 to 12 meters in length

Pterosaurs were extraordinary flying reptiles of the extinct group Pterosauria, dominating the skies during the Mesozoic Era, from the Triassic through the Jurassic to the Cretaceous Period (approximately 228 to 66 million years ago). They represent the earliest vertebrates known to achieve powered flight, long before birds evolved.

Pterosaur wings were unique, formed from a membrane of skin, muscle, and connective tissue stretching from the hind limbs to an elongated fourth finger, enabling efficient gliding and active flight. Early pterosaur species had long, fully-toothed jaws and extended tails, while later species evolved reduced tails and, in some cases, became toothless, reflecting changes in feeding strategies and flight mechanics.

Their skeletons were highly specialized for flight, featuring hollow, air-filled bones similar to birds. These bones were extremely thin yet strong, providing lightweight support while allowing extensive muscle attachment for powerful flight. Pterosaurs also had a large, keeled breastbone to anchor strong flight muscles and an enlarged brain, which enabled complex coordination for aerial maneuvering and hunting.

From small, agile species to giants with wingspans exceeding 10 meters, pterosaurs were diverse and successful Mesozoic flying reptiles. Their anatomy and adaptations illustrate the remarkable evolution of vertebrate flight, making them one of the most iconic and scientifically significant groups of prehistoric reptiles.