Quetzalcoatlus (Feathered Serpent god Quetzalcoatl)

Artwork credit: Eldar Zakirov

Basic facts

  • 40 feet (12m) wingspan

  • Late Cretaceous

  • USA

  • Carnivore

Quetzalcoatlus is a genus of pterosaur belonging to the family Azhdarchidae. It lived approximately 68 to 66 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period in what is now North America. The first fossils of Quetzalcoatlus were discovered in Texas in the 1970s, and subsequent findings have revealed a wealth of information about this impressive creature.

Quetzalcoatlus was one of the largest flying animals to have ever existed. With an estimated wingspan of up to 10 to 11 meters, it dwarfed all other known pterosaurs. Its long and slender body was supported by an elongated neck and powerful wings, while its relatively short legs and elongated fourth finger were adapted for takeoff and flight. Its beak was elongated and toothless, suggesting a diet primarily consisting of fish and small vertebrates.

The enormous wingspan of Quetzalcoatlus allowed it to take to the air and soar effortlessly. Its wings were formed by a membrane of skin that stretched between an elongated fourth finger and the body. This adaptation enabled powered flight, with the wing muscles providing the necessary lift and propulsion. Despite its massive size, Quetzalcoatlus likely employed efficient soaring techniques, taking advantage of air currents to maintain flight and conserve energy.