New Species of Flying Pterosaur Uncovered in Mass Grave of Nearly 50 Reptiles

Scientists have uncovered the bones of nearly 50 flying reptiles that lived during the Cretaceous. Named Caiuajara dobruskii, this winged pterosaur once inhabited southern Brazil.

Pterosaurs were flying reptiles that existed from the late Triassic to the end of the Cretaceous period about 228 to 66 million years ago. During that time, these creatures took to the skies, using wings that were formed from a membrane of skin, muscle, and other tissues.

The new findings are of pterosaurs that ranged from the very young to adults. Possessing wingspans that ranged from .65 to 2.35 meters, these creatures are the southernmost representation of their clade.

What's most interesting about the finding is the fact that because the bones range in age, scientists can examine how this pterosaur developed and matured. In addition, Caiuajara dobruskii possessed features on its head that differed from other members of its clade, such as a bony expansion projecting inside the large opening of its skull in front of its eyes. In addition, it possessed rounded depressions in the outer surface of its jaw. Scientists believe the younger and older reptiles probably had bony crests on the tops of their heads that varied in angle and size, depending on their age. In fact, the crest appears to have changed from small and inclined in juveniles to large and steep in adults.

The scientists also were able to uncover a bit about this pterosaurs behavior. Because this species was found in a group, it's likely that it was gregarious. Like some species of birds, these pterosaurs probably lived in colonies and may have been able to fly at a very young age.

The findings reveal a bit more about this new species. This, in turn, shows a bit more about the ancient creatures that once inhabited our planet.

The findings are published in the journal PLOS One.