Pterodactyl Tooth

Pterodactyl (“Winged finger”)
Late Jurassic
150 - 148 million years ago 

Size: 1 metre wingspan
Range: Western Europe and Northern Africa
Habitat: Coastal habitat and around large bodies of water
Diet: Carnivorous

Pterodactylus is a member of a larger group of flying reptiles called Pterosaurs. The word pterodactyl is sometimes used to refer to all pterosaurs, but there is actually only one recorded species within the Pterodactylus genus - Pterodactylus antiquus. This species is a relatively small pterosaur, with a wingspan of just over a metre. The largest pterosaur, Quetzalcoatlus northropi, had a wingspan of 13 metres! 

Pterodactylus were capable of flapping flight, like modern birds, in contrast to earlier flying reptiles who were only capable of gliding. Pterodactylus had a crest on the top of its head formed from flesh supported by two bones, which is believed to have grown as the pterodactyl aged. Scientists are still debating on its function. It may have been used as a form of species identification, or played a role in sexual selection, heat regulation, or even as a rudder in flight.

Quick Fact: For many years after the first fossilised skull was discovered, it was believed that pterodactylus was an aquatic creature. It was over 50 years before scientists discovered that the “flippers” were actually wings.

This Pterosaur Tooth (165 Million Years Old) has been displayed and elegantly mounted in a museum quality deep box frame, by our expert in-house team and is accompanied by a detailed sketch of this species.

Frame: Satin finished acrylic

Mount: 300 GSM acid free card stock with a 2 mm bevelled edge matboard border

Display: Self standing frame or wall hanging bracket

Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 6 cm

Informed by detailed knowledge and understanding of dinosaur anatomy, this watercolour design has been created by a published scientific illustrator and specially commissioned for our paleo collection.

The picture shown is an example of the quality that you can expect to receive. Please be aware that, as these are natural products, they are subject to some variation.

We work closely with reputable suppliers all over the world to source high quality, genuine specimens. Each fossil comes with a certificate of authenticity documenting the provenance of each specimen, including the age and location where it was discovered.