Name:
Jeholopterus (Greek for "Jehol wing"); pronounced JAY-hole-OP-ter-us
Habitat:
Shores of Asia
Historical Period:
Late Jurassic (150-145 million years ago)
Size and Weight:
Wingspan of 3 feet; weight unknown
Diet:
Probably insects
Distinguishing Characteristics:
Large, blunt head with fangs; large claws
About Jeholopterus:
Jeholopterus was far from your garden-variety pterosaur: this flying reptile was distinguished by its unusually large and sharp claws, its cat-like head with prominent fangs and widely articulated jaws (meaning it could open it mouth wider than other pterosaurs), and its unusually short tail (for a rhamphorhynchoid).
Why did Jeholopterus have so many specialized features? As you can imagine, speculation has run rampant: some paleontologists believe this pterosaur clung to the backs of large terrestrial dinosaurs and sucked their blood. It's a striking image, but pending further investigation (and evidence) we may never know for sure.
