Fossil from Germany unlocks history of ancient flying reptiles

In Bavaria 147 million years ago, a new pterosaur species, Skiphosoura bavarica, was discovered, bridging the evolutionary gap between early and later pterosaurs. This well-preserved fossil with a 7-foot wingspan had a bony crest, sharp teeth, and a short tail, providing insight into pterosaur evolution. Pterosaurs, the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight, played crucial roles in ecosystems until their extinction 66 million years ago, preceding birds and bats in the evolution of flight.

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