Micro CT scans of TMP2023.012.0237 - Pterosaur cervical vertebra with bite mark

Identifying feeding interactions in the fossil record remains a key
challenge for palaeoecologists. We report the rare occurrence of a
conical, perforative bite mark in a cervical vertebra of an azhdarchid
pterosaur, which we identify as a juvenile individual of Cryodrakon boreas
from the Campanian Dinosaur Park Formation in Alberta, Canada. Based on a
comparative analysis of the dentition and ecomorphology of potential trace
makers in the Dinosaur Park Formation as well as the morphology of the
trace, the most likely candidate is a crocodilian, although whether it was
made as a result of scavenging or predatory behaviour is unknown. Feeding
interactions involving pterosaurs are rare, globally, whereas crocodilian
bite marks are not uncommon in Cretaceous terrestrial ecosystems. Given
the opportunistic feeding style and known range of food items for both
extant and extinct crocodilians, pterosaurs can be counted as a rare, but
not surprising component of at least some Cretaceous crocodilian diets.