Pterosaurs were possibly the first vertebrates to take powered flight, Pteranodon longiceps (“winged tooth”) was among the largest. This flying ace would have ruled the skies over the Western Interior Seaway. Strong evidence suggests they could soar for long periods of time without flapping, much like an Albatross, as they searched for small fish. This sea predator may have been able to speed through the sky with powerful flapping of its large membranous wings to attack and to avoid danger. The large crest on top of the Pteranodon skull may have been used in mating displays or merely as a kind of rudder steering it through the Cretaceous skies. On land these graceful fliers could have walked on all fours. Pteranodon is only found in Late Cretaceous sediments in North America.

This is a cast replica of a life size sculpture by paleontologist Chris Ott, based on a specimen from the Upper Cretaceous, Niobrara Chalk Formation in Kansas and has a wingspan of 20 feet! We can mount this replica in a standing, walking, or flying pose. An impressive animal when soaring above your other exhibits! Our replica is modular, with removable wings, legs and skull. In flying position, it will be hung by 3 cables.