| Pterodactyl | |
|---|---|
 | |
|
Other Names |
Pterodactylus or Dimorphodon |
|
First Appearance |
The Lost World (1912) |
|
Original Publisher |
Hodder & Stoughton |
|
Created by |
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle |
Origin[]
Cover of the German translation of The Lost World from 1926.
A large number of giant Pterodactyls are among the prehistoric survivor species discovered by Prof. Challenger's 1911 expedition to explore the mysterious, nigh-inaccessible South American plateau known as the Maple White Land.
These appear to be an undiscovered species of large, carnivorous pterosaurs with huge membranous wings and sharp teeth in their beaks. They are notably gregarious creatures, living in communities of up to 50 individuals among the swamps of the plateau. They seem to feed mostly on fish and birds, although at least one has been observed preying on the carcass of an agouti. The bite of the pterodactyl is also mildly venomous, provoking symptoms of fever and pain.
Apparently, Challenger and Summerlee couldn't agree on whether this species should be classified under genus Pterodactylus or Dimorphodon.
Public Domain Appearances[]
All published appearances of Pterodactyl in the Lost World from before January 1, 1931 are public domain in the US.
Public Domain Literary Appearances[]
- The Lost World (1912)
Public Domain Film Appearances[]
- The Lost World (1925)
Gallery[]
