Feilongus (Flying Dragon)

Basic facts

  • 8 feet (2.4m) wingspan

  • Early Cretaceous

  • China

  • Carnivore

Feilongus is a genus of pterosaur belonging to the family Pterodactyloidea. It lived approximately 129.4 million years ago to 113 million years ago, during the Early Cretaceous, in what is now China. The first fossils of Feilongus were discovered in the 21st century, providing paleontologists with valuable insights into this enigmatic flying reptile.

Feilongus was a medium-sized pterosaur, estimated to have had a wingspan of around 2.4 meters. It possessed a slender and elongated skull, with sharp teeth ideal for capturing prey. Its wings were supported by a well-developed finger and membrane structure, allowing it to glide and maneuver through the air with agility. However, due to limited fossil remains, the complete anatomical details of Feilongus are still being studied.

Feilongus, like other pterosaurs, possessed a unique wing structure that enabled it to fly. Its lightweight yet strong bones, along with the membrane stretching between its elongated fourth finger and body, facilitated powered flight. Feilongus likely relied on its keen eyesight and aerial agility to navigate the skies and hunt for prey.