Rare cf. Ornithocheirid Pterosaur Claw, Early Cretaceous - Erlhaz Fm, Gadoufaoua, Niger

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An exceptionally rare and visually striking pterosaur claw from the family Ornithocheiridae. This specimen is over 95% complete, unrestored, and retains anatomical details that are rarely preserved in market specimens.

The claw’s exceptional state of preservation reveals a rich yellow-ivory coloration, subtly deepened by darker veins of mineralised patina that trace along its surface. These natural infusions, formed over millions of years, accentuate the organic grain of the fossil and highlight the texture, curvature and structure that once made it a formidable predatory tool.

Pterosaurs were a group of flying reptiles that ruled the skies during the age of dinosaurs. Though often mistaken for dinosaurs themselves, they belonged to a distinct lineage of archosaurs, uniquely adapted for powered flight. 

Ornithocheirus had mostly vertical teeth, rather than set at an outward-pointing angle like it’s relatives. Another feature unique to Ornithocheirus is the fact it had relatively narrow jaw tips compared to the related Coloborhynchus and Tropeognathus, which had prominently-expanded rosettes of teeth, as well as a more developed "keeled" crest compared to Ornithocheirus.   

It is debated that Ornithocheirus was one of the largest pterosaurs, with earlier estimates suggesting a wingspan of up to 40 feet (12.2 m) wide. 

Pterosaur claws of this size and quality are rare, particularly from the Gadoufaoua formation, a classic Early Cretaceous site.  
Ideal for collectors and natural history museums alike, this specimen combines scientific interest, aesthetic appeal, and rarity.

Specimen Details:

 Scientific Name: cf Ornithocheirid Pterosaur (cf Ornithocheirus simus, Owen, 1861)

Geological Formation: Erlhaz Formation

Age: Lower Cretaceous, Aptian/Albian stage (~113 million years)

Location Found: Gadoufaoua, Téneré Desert, Niger

Size: 2.65 cm / 26.5mm 

Condition: Unrestored, all natural, original fossil; natural ivory-yellow patina with darker vein patterns. Overall the claw remains over 95% complete, only missing a very small sector at tip and proximal end.

Diagnostic Features: Symmetrical vein grooves, flat ventral edge