How azhdarchids flew
Added 2023-06-22 17:10:29 +0000 UTC<figure>
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This is an addendum to the most terrestrial pterosaurs article. As noted there, azhdarchids have been compared to large continental flyers. These include thermal soarers (large raptors, storks, pelicans) and continuous flappers (waterfowl, bustards).
An unreleased-to-the-public post on Mark Witton’s patreon in particular in particular deals with Hatzegopteryx: under lighter weight estimates (-300 kilos) it would rank among thermal soarers, with condors in particular being the subject of comparison. However, heavier weight estimates (+300) would necessitate it being a continuous flapper, with swans being the object of comparison. Either way, the animal would be comparable to large long distance continental flyers.
Personally, I favour the continuous flapper hypothesis, since it makes the most sense with azhdarchids having short wings and long necks. However, this may very well have varied among the group, with maybe lighter forms like Arambourgiana being thermal soarers.
