Pterosaur

In the stairwell is a 1/4-scale model of the world's largest known flying creature. Known as Quetzacoatlus northropi, this animal lived in the Cretaceous Period, some 70 million years ago, in what is now Texas. It has a wingspan of about 13 meters (40 feet). Since it is believed that Quetzacoatlus was a scavenger the painting on this model was influenced by the color patterns of modern vultures. On the landing below is an exhibit on pterosaurs that include original drawings and casts of fossil specimens.

Model built by Earl Oman/ Painted by Jeanie McGowan