A 76-million-year-old fossilized neck bone from a young pterosaur has been discovered in Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta, Canada, offering rare insights into the interactions between ancient species. The find features a distinctive puncture mark from a crocodilian predator, which was confirmed using advanced micro-CT scans.
The discovery sheds light on the fierce survival struggles faced by prehistoric flying reptiles and provides significant information about Cretaceous ecosystems. The young pterosaur, believed to belong to the Azhdarchid family, had an impressive wingspan of 6 feet 7 inches (approximately 2 meters), while its adult counterparts could soar with wings up to 32 feet 10 inches (around 10 meters) wide.
This rare find highlights the scarcity of pterosaur fossils with bite marks, particularly juvenile specimens. The use of advanced micro-CT scans has allowed researchers to investigate fossils without damaging them, preserving the integrity of the findings while providing detailed insights that traditional methods might miss.
The discovery provides a captivating glimpse into the ancient world and underscores the importance of studying the intricate relationships between prehistoric species. As our understanding of these creatures continues to evolve, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of survival, predation, and competition during the Cretaceous Period.
Source: https://naseba.sk/uncategorised/24482/uncovering-a-dinosaurs-deadly-encounter-a-stunning-fossil-discovery