Researchers Create Computer Simulation of Awkward Takeoff and Landing of Ancient Pterosaur Quetzalcoatlus
Posted on November 15, 2012
Researchers from Texas Tech University have created a computer simulation of the takeoff, flight and landing of the giant ancient pterosaur Quetzalcoatlus. Quetzalcoatlus weighed around 155 pounds and had a 34-foot wingspan, which is nearly the size of an F-16 fighter jet. The researchers say the creature would need a cliff or a sloping area in order to takeoff.
Sankar Chatterjee, Horn Professor of Geosciences and curator of paleontology at the Museum of Texas Tech University, told Texas Tech Today, "This animal probably flew like an albatross or a frigate bird in that it could soar and glide very well. It spent most of its time in the air. But when it comes to takeoff and landing, they're so awkward that they had to run. If it were taking off from a cliff, then it was OK. But if Quetzalcoatlus were on the ground, it probably had to find a sloping area like a river bank, and then run quickly on four feet, then two to pick up enough power to get into the air. It needed an area to taxi."
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