Dragon-resembling pretosaurs were possibly largest flying animals ever to exist

The study in Current Biology reveals that pterosaurs' ground movement was crucial to their evolution as the first flying vertebrates. Researchers examined 64 pterosaur taxa, discovering a significant transition in their terrestrial abilities during the Middle Jurassic. This change allowed pterosaurs to diversify diets, grow larger, and occupy various ecological roles. The study challenges assumptions about pterosaurs' limited behavior and impact, emphasizing the importance of understanding their non-aerial capabilities alongside flight abilities.