Pterodactylus
Pterodactylus
(151-149 mya)
Pterodactylus (from Greek meaning “winged finger”) is a member of the Pterosauria order, Jurassic period reptiles evolved powered flight. They are divided into major types: rhamphorhynchoids and pterodactyloids. Pterodactilus belongs to the second group. The Pterodactylus inhabited regions of Germany, France and Tanzania about 155-145 million years ago.
The Pterodactylus had an unusual structure. Its head was elongated and relatively small with long pointed beak. The crest nearly equal to the beak length decorated the skull top. Pterodactylus had an advanced brain and cerebellum.
To ensure flight freedom and maneuverability, Pterodactylus skeletal system included various hollow bones.
Four forelimb digits: one long with several phalanges served as wing support, and three small ones which would have made the reptile effective rock and branches climber. The membranous wing stretched from its elongated fourth finger to its hind limb resembling a BASE jumping suit.
Pterodactylus dwelt in rookeries and hosted along the coastlines. They spent a night on the tree branches and in the morning jump off a height opened out the wings upwind, because they were unable to take off. Their diet included fish and insects.
Pterodactylus evolved many sizes. They varied from pigeon size up to 12 metres wingspan creature named Quetzalcoatlus. Mentioned reptile was covered with fluffy fur protecting it against the chills of night.
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