Monstrous Ancient ‘Dragon’ Discovered
Researchers in Australia have discovered the remains of an 100 million year old and rather monstrous-looking flying reptile that has been likened to a dragon.
The menacing creature was reportedly identified by way of a three-foot-long skull that was unearthed in North West Queensland. Given the scientific name Thapunngaka shawi, the pterosaur boasted a whopping 23-foot wingspan and its menacing maw contained approximately 40 teeth.
“It’s the closest thing we have to a real-life dragon,” marveled lead researcher Tim Richards of the University of Queensland, “it was essentially just a skull with a long neck, bolted on a pair of long wings.” He went on to muse that the ancient creature was likely “a fearsome beast, with a spear-like mouth” that would swoop down on unsuspecting prey.
“It would have cast a great shadow over some quivering little dinosaurs who wouldn’t have heard them coming until it was too late,” Richards said, envisioning the pterosaur on the hunt.
The fossilized skull was actually discovered a decade ago by a prospector who stumbled upon the proverbial scientific treasure.
The name of the pterosaur recognizes his role in bringing the long-lost reptile to light and also honors the native Wanamara people who inhabited the region where the fossil was found.
“The genus name, Thapunngaka, incorporates thapun and ngaka, the Wanamara words for ‘spear’ and ‘mouth’, respectively,” explained study co-author Dr. Steve Salisbury, “the species name, ‘shawi,’ honors the fossil’s discoverer Len Shaw, so the name means ‘Shaw’s spear mouth.’”
See more here: coasttocoastam.com
Header image: The Guardian
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Howdy
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I liken It to pterosaur variant.
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Howdy
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Remove the teeth, what do you have? A big pelican..
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Andy
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Haha yep!
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Moffin
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And the pouch at the pelican’s throat got turned into the 100 million year old shirt the guy is wearing.
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Howdy
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HeHe…
Andy
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Haha good one 🙂