Key Information
Pteranodon
| Species | Pteranodon longiceps, Pteranodon sternbergi |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Length | 5 to 8.5 ft |
| Weight | 45 to 205 lbs (suggested) |
| Wingspan | 12 to 21 ft |
| Timescale | Late Cretaceous |
| Classification | Chordata > Pterosauria > Pteranodontidae |
Learning Point
- Pteranodon is one of the most famous of the pterosaurs, or flying reptiles. It was once viewed as the largest pterosaur, and is known for its long crest and large graceful wings. Evidence suggests it was a fish eater.
Project
- Draw a pair of Pterandons nesting.
- Overview
- X-Ray
- Crest Variations
Location
| Confirmed | North America |
Fun Facts
- The name Pteranodon means “wing without tooth” in Greek, partly because it has no teeth in its beak.
- Many different pterosaurs have been described as pterandons, often because they had crests. However, many have been moved to other species, or have been seen as variations of the pteranodon existing species
- The male and female pteranodons seem to be vastly different in size, and the crests of the male were longer, perhaps for display and to attract females.
- In North America, it seems there was an inland sea that the pteranodons lived around, as many have been found in the central parts of the USA.
Past Lessons
| 27 | October 21, 2022 | (North America) |
| 73 | July 5, 2023 | (North America) |
| 130 | December 14, 2023 | (International) |