Identifying Fossils as Pterosaur

The pterosaurs had very light and thin walled bones.  Most of the long bones were hollow and many larger bones had cavities within them.  It is sometimes difficult to see how the bones would have been in life if they have been replaced with mineral.  The weight of the specimen is dramatically increases and the internal cavities can sometimes be lost.

This is a rough guide to help identify pterosaur bones.  It is not exhaustive and it is often best to consult an expert where identification is not obvious.

Tooth  

Age

 

Skull

Vertebra

      Curved Bone
  Flat Bone  

Partial Bone

 
 

Long Bone

  Short Bone  
   

Jaw

   

If you are uncertain of an identification for a fossil or a bone fragment - then say so.  This will help future researchers who may have more information on which to base their identification.  Where there is strong evidence for an identification, it is best to identify your sources of information as well.

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