Pterosaurs

Front

What is a Pterosaur?

Back

Pterosaurs are a group of flying reptiles that lived during the Mesozoic era, known for their wings made of skin and muscle, supported by an elongated fourth finger.

Front

What is the Mesozoic era?

Back

The Mesozoic era is a major geological time span that lasted from about 252 million years ago to 66 million years ago, often referred to as the 'Age of Dinosaurs'.

Front

What distinguishes Dimorphodon from other pterosaurs?

Back

Dimorphodon is characterized by its small size, a wingspan of about 4.6 feet, and two different sets of teeth: canine-like teeth in the front and smaller teeth in the back.

Front

What is the wingspan of Quetzalcoatlus?

Back

Quetzalcoatlus had an estimated wingspan of up to 36 feet (11 meters), making it one of the largest flying animals ever.

Front

What type of beak did Ornithocheirus have?

Back

Ornithocheirus had a pointed, toothed beak with a bony bump on the end, adapted for catching fish.

Front

What is the significance of the long tail in some pterosaurs?

Back

A long tail in some pterosaurs, like Dimorphodon, may have helped with balance and maneuverability during flight.

Front

What adaptations did pterosaurs have for flight?

Back

Pterosaurs had lightweight bodies, large wings made of skin, and hollow bones, which helped them to fly efficiently.

Front

What is Anurognathus known for?

Back

Anurognathus is known for its small size, bat-like appearance, and a very short tail, with a wingspan of 16 to 20 inches.

Front

How did pterosaurs differ from dinosaurs?

Back

Pterosaurs were flying reptiles, while dinosaurs were primarily terrestrial. Pterosaurs are not classified as dinosaurs, despite living during the same era.

Front

What type of diet did many pterosaurs have?

Back

Many pterosaurs were piscivorous, meaning they primarily fed on fish, using their beaks to catch prey over water.