Pseudodontron skeleton

Pseudodontron ("pseudo-teeth")

Look at this skeleton from two angles: from below looking up toward the Peregrine painting by Fuertes or from eye-level by the second floor near the entrance to the Adelson Library.

This skeleton is a cast of an ancient bird that lived during the late Oligocene Epoch, 28 million years ago. The original skeleton was discovered in Charleston County, South Carolina. This giant bird had sharp, bony projections along its beak which paleontologists believe probably functioned as teeth, and which give the creature its name. Also known as Pelagornis, it currently holds the record as the largest bird ever to have flown, with an estimated wingspan of more than 20 feet (5 meters).

The mural From So Simple a Beginning, which covers the wall visible behind the cast, features a fully feathered interpretation of this bird soaring near the staircase. Visit the Wall of Birds online tour to learn more about this impressive ancient animal.