The fossil is removed from its discovery location on the Isle of Skye in 2017.
The expeditionfunded by the National Geographic Societydiscovered a large jawbone poking out of a rock.
Amelia Pennya paleontology PhD studentfirst noticed the fossil on the beach in 2017.
The fossil is removed from its discovery location on the Isle of Skye in 2017. (Photo: Shasta Marrero/University of Edinburgh)
Steve Brusatte of the University of Edinburgh led the expedition.
It was really the most stressed I’ve been as far as a discovery in the field.
The fossil is the most complete pterosaur ever discovered in Scotland.
PhD student Natalia Jagielska with the 170-million-year-old fossil. (Photo:Stewart Attwood/University of Edinburgh)
Because these creatures had hollow, light bones, finding well-preserved fossils are a rarity.
The fossil fills an evolutionary gap in the history of the pterosaur.
Although not fully grown, the fossil is larger than many specimens of the Jurassic period.
Artistic depiction of the flying reptile. (Photo:Natalia Jagielska/University of Edinburgh)
Adults may have had wingspans of over 8 feet.
They also appear to have large optic lobes, implying excellent eyesight.
The fossil will continue to be studied and will eventually join the collection of the National Museums Scotland.
Scientists in Scotland discovered an exceptionally complete pterosaur fossil on the Isle of Skye.
PhD student Natalia Jagielska with the 170-million-year-old fossil.
Artistic depiction of the flying reptile.
