The pterosaur Dimorphodon is notable for the size of its head, which is much bigger than found in similar pterosaurs such as Pterodactylus. Its name translates to 'two-form tooth', in reference to the two sets of teeth it has, while Dimorphodon is one of the smaller species of pterosaur, weighing just a few kilograms and with a wingspan of around 1.5m.
Discovery
This genus was discovered by paleontologist and fossil collector Mary Anning in Dorset, on the south coast of the United Kingdom, in 1828. It was initially classified as a new species of Pterodactylus, but in 1858 Anning's discovery, then known as Pterodactylus macronyx, was officially classified as a new genus, Dimorphodon.
Paleoecology
Dimorphodon lived during the Early Jurassic period, around 190-200m years ago. It lived along the coasts of Europe and was a piscivore, roaming nearby forests to hunt for insects and small animals – although it may also have fed on carrion when it couldn't find any prey.
