Logo
    Search

    Podcast Summary

    • Simplifying complex tasks with tools and knowledgeTools and resources help make complex situations easier to understand and manage, from managing finances to studying prehistory.

      There are various tools and resources available to help simplify complex situations, whether it's managing finances to earn travel rewards or understanding the mysteries of the past through paleontology. The Capital One Venture X Card offers unlimited 2X miles on every purchase and premium travel benefits, making everyday expenses feel extraordinary. Meanwhile, AutoTrader's Kelly Blue Book My Wallet helps users determine their monthly car payments with ease. In the world of prehistory, the misconception of Terasars as flying dinosaurs has been debunked, revealing them as large, winged reptiles called pterosaurs. These examples show how tools and knowledge can make complex tasks more manageable and enjoyable.

    • Pterosaurs: Flying Reptiles, Not DinosaursPterosaurs are flying reptiles that lived during the dinosaur era but are not directly related to them. Their bones don't fossilize well, limiting our knowledge.

      Pterosaurs, despite being commonly referred to as flying dinosaurs, are actually flying reptiles that coexisted with dinosaurs during the same time period but are not directly related to them. The confusion arises because birds, which are dinosaurs, were also flying creatures that emerged later. Additionally, there are various misconceptions about specific pterosaur species, such as the misnamed "pterodactyl," which is actually a specific genus. Another challenge in understanding pterosaurs is that their bones do not fossilize well due to their lightweight and hollow structure, designed for flight. O.C. Marsh, a pioneering paleontologist, was among the first to discover pterosaur fossils in the late 1800s, but their rarity and fragility have limited our knowledge compared to other fossil groups.

    • From 'wing fingers' to flying reptiles: The evolution of pterosaur understandingThrough the discovery of numerous fossils and the contributions of scientists like Marsh and Cuvier, our understanding of pterosaurs evolved from misconceptions to recognizing them as ancient flying reptiles.

      The discovery and understanding of pterosaurs, ancient flying reptiles, has a rich and fascinating history. The first known fossil was discovered in the late 18th century in Germany, but it wasn't until the late 19th century that they gained significant attention due to the discovery of numerous similar specimens by Othniel Charles Marsh. Early misconceptions about these creatures led to names like "pterodactyl," which means "wing finger" in Greek, but the true nature of their wings was not fully understood until Georges Cuvier identified them as such in 1812. The preservation of pterosaur fossils often occurs in ancient lagoons where they died suddenly and were quickly covered, allowing for gentle fossilization. Today, platforms like Zigazoo provide a safe and fun environment for kids to share their content and discover new trends, much like how the understanding of pterosaurs evolved over time through the discoveries and contributions of various scientists.

    • Exploring the Mysteries of the Past and PresentBetterment helps manage finances through automated investing and high yield cash accounts, while Hidden Brain podcast provides insights into human behavior. A recent discovery of a female pterosaur without a head crest challenges theories about their use for the crests.

      Just like pterosaurs and their mysterious head crests, there are many aspects of the world around us that remain a mystery and are subject to ongoing research and debate. In finance, Betterment helps make your money work for you through automated investing and high yield cash accounts. Meanwhile, the Hidden Brain podcast offers insights into human behavior through science and stories. In the realm of prehistoric creatures, the discovery of a female pterosaur without a head crest supports the theory that only males had them. However, despite advancements, there is still much we don't know about these ancient creatures and their uses for the crests. So whether it's understanding ourselves, managing our finances, or exploring the mysteries of the past, there's always more to learn.

    • Ancient flying reptiles, pterosaurs, showed similar feeding behaviors as pelicansNew research reveals pterosaurs had diverse diets, including marine life and small dinosaurs, and some species had unique features like sail-like crests and toothbrush-like lower jaws

      Pterosaurs, ancient flying reptiles, showed convergent evolution with modern pelicans in their feeding behaviors. Despite not being related, both groups developed similar methods of scooping up marine life from ancient oceans using their lower jaws. Previously believed to be solely marine creatures, new research suggests that pterosaurs had diverse diets, including small dinosaurs. The discussion also highlighted various pterosaur species, such as the Tapahara Imperator with its sail-like crest and the Pterodactylus with its toothbrush-like lower jaw. These discoveries add to our understanding of the rich diversity and complexity of life during the time of dinosaurs.

    • New discoveries reveal diverse pterosaurs with advanced flight capabilitiesRecent research shows pterosaurs were more diverse and advanced than previously thought, with the ability to fly soon after hatching and fly long distances, challenging earlier depictions of them as bat-like creatures with limited abilities.

      Our understanding of pterosaurs has evolved significantly over the years. What was once believed to be a few species with limited abilities, is now recognized as a diverse group of creatures with varying sizes and flight capabilities. They were likely able to fly soon after hatching and could fly long distances, much like modern-day jetliners. Contrary to earlier beliefs, pterosaurs were not built like bats, despite their wing-like structures. Instead, they had three digits that were free, while the fourth digit formed the long bone of their wing. This discovery has led to a reevaluation of how pterosaurs stood and moved, as they were most likely quadrupeds rather than standing on their hind legs as previously depicted. These new findings provide valuable insights into the lives of these ancient flying creatures.

    • The influence of popular culture and misconceptions on our perceptionsPeople's beliefs can be shaped by popular culture and misconceptions, leading to incorrect assumptions. It's essential to question sources and seek knowledge to avoid misunderstandings.

      Our perceptions and assumptions can be influenced by popular culture and misconceptions. For instance, people once believed that pterodactyls, prehistoric flying creatures, walked like cartoon bulldogs due to their misinterpretation of bird behavior. Similarly, children's social media platform Zigazoo offers a safe and fun environment for kids to create content, debunking the negative stereotypes associated with other social networks. Another interesting observation is that people can turn their unused spaces into income-generating opportunities, like renting out rooms on Airbnb. Overall, these discussions highlight the importance of questioning assumptions, seeking knowledge, and embracing new experiences.

    • New discoveries challenge old assumptions about pterosaursRecent findings reveal pterosaurs were powerful quadrupeds with strong arms and shoulders, challenging the notion that they were clumsy flyers

      The evolution of pterosaurs, ancient flying reptiles, is still a topic of ongoing research. Current theories suggest they may have evolved from small, light lizards that were excellent jumpers. Surprisingly, recent discoveries reveal that these creatures were not only quadrupedal but also had incredibly strong arms and shoulders, suggesting that they may have used their arms to propel themselves into the air before flapping their wings. Additionally, there were two distinct groups of pterosaurs, with the earlier species having long tails for steering and the later ones losing their tails as they developed new methods to control their flight. This new understanding challenges previous assumptions about pterosaurs, which were often portrayed as clumsy and awkward flyers due to their unusual physical characteristics.

    • Discovering the unique structure of Pterosaur bonesPterosaurs had incredibly lightweight yet strong bones due to their unique plywood-like structure, enabling them to fly with large wingspans.

      Pterosaurs, ancient flying reptiles, had incredibly lightweight yet strong bones due to their unique structure. These bones were about a millimeter thick and made of cross-sectioned layers like plywood, allowing large pterosaurs up to 40 feet in wingspan to fly. This discovery was made during a fossil episode, which highlighted the challenges in preserving these fragile creatures due to their lightweight bones. Interestingly, scientists speculate that these creatures might have used their wings as paddles for swimming if they were near water. A fascinating comparison can be drawn between these ancient creatures and marine birds of today. Additionally, the speakers shared an exciting experience of flying on a private jet for the first time, emphasizing the convenience and luxury of private travel.

    • Impressions of private jet travel and dinosaursPrivate jets offer time savings and enjoyable travel, but the novelty wears off. Dinosaurs continue to captivate children's imaginations.

      Private jets offer a hassle-free travel experience with significant time savings, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. The speaker was impressed by the lack of airport wait times and the quick boarding process. However, once in the air, the novelty wore off, and it didn't feel life-changing. The conversation then shifted to dinosaurs, which brought out the inner child in both speakers. Despite the schools' poor coverage of dinosaur periods, the fascination with dinosaurs was popular during the 80s and continues to be a favorite among kids today.

    • The Fascinating World of Pterosaurs: Discoveries, Debates, and CompetitionThe study of pterosaurs, or flying reptiles, is a competitive field with ongoing discoveries and debates among researchers, leading to significant advancements despite occasional disputes. Learning from the past helps us appreciate progress.

      The study of pterosaurs, or flying reptiles, is an exciting and competitive field with a rich history of discoveries and debates among researchers. The search for the proto-Terasaur, the common ancestor of all pterosaurs, continues to generate excitement within the community. Despite the occasional rivalries and public disputes, the competition among researchers drives advancements in the field. Moreover, the discussion touched upon an interesting article in National Geographic that shed light on the infamous feuds and rivalries within the pterosaur paleontology community. These disputes, while sometimes petty, have led to significant progress in the field. Furthermore, the conversation also touched upon a listener's personal story about foot binding in Chinese history, which served as a reminder of how far society has come and the importance of learning from the past. So, in essence, the study of pterosaurs is a fascinating and competitive field, with ongoing discoveries and debates among researchers, despite occasional disputes. And by learning from the past, we can gain a better appreciation for how far we've come.

    • Exploring Different Platforms and Services for Various Needs and DemographicsFrom educational podcasts to kid-friendly social media and financial services, platforms and services cater to diverse needs and backgrounds, ensuring everyone feels valued and connected.

      There are various platforms and services catering to different needs and demographics. For instance, Stuff You Should Know, a production of iHeartRadio, encourages engagement through their website and social media links. For kids, there's Zigazoo, a social media platform designed specifically for them, ensuring safety and moderation. Regarding financial matters, Discover offers special treatment to cardholders with 24/7 customer service and $0 fraud liability. Lastly, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers rewarding careers for individuals looking to make a difference in the lives of veterans. These examples demonstrate how various entities cater to diverse needs and backgrounds, ensuring everyone feels valued and connected.

    Recent Episodes from Stuff You Should Know

    Whistling!

    Whistling!

    Whistling is pretty cool when you think about it because it can mean many things, from simple happy tunes to legit communication. Learn all about this ubiquitous skill today. 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Stuff You Should Know
    enJune 25, 2024

    The Big Episode on Wikipedia

    The Big Episode on Wikipedia

    Wikipedia changed the world. Before it came along, you had to go to the library to get the answers you sought. And you and your friends had to just agree to disagree on facts. And as the internet grew and commercialized, Wikipedia remains free and open.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Stuff You Should Know
    enJune 20, 2024

    Related Episodes

    Dino-mite! Meet The Real Stars of 'Jurassic World: Dominion'

    Dino-mite! Meet The Real Stars of 'Jurassic World: Dominion'
    Move over, T-Rex.

    There are new, (mostly) more accurate dinosaurs to squeal over in 'Jurassic World: Dominion', the sixth and reportedly final film of the Jurassic film franchise. Join us to get to know them a little more with help from Riley Black, a paleontologist and author of the book The Last Days of the Dinosaurs.

    Want to hear more about the science in pop culture? Or maybe just want to show your support for our continued coverage of dinosaurs? Let us know by e-mailing shortwave@npr.org.

    Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    NPR Privacy Policy

    TLS06E01 Rhamphorhynchus

    TLS06E01 Rhamphorhynchus

    Series 6? That can’t be right. Surely this is 3 or 4 or something, 5 at the outside. Blimey. Anyway, we are back and we have new episodes though we are cheating already by starting with a pterosaur and talking about the greatly underappreciated Rhamphorhynchus. As the only vaguely well-known long-tailed pterosaur it is shown in the background of every Jurassic dinosaur painting to give scale the sauropods no matter how far inland or on the wrong continent or time it may be. It is though, as usual, much more interesting than people give it credit for and it’s very well studied and well understood so it’s a shame it doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Dave likes it so much he went on about the growth, tail, beak, wings and more until we’d recorded enough that we didn’t have a guest so just pterosaurs this week!

     

    Links:

    Blogpost about Dave’s paper on growth in Rhamphorhynchus: https://archosaurmusings.wordpress.com/2020/07/08/how-to-grow-your-dragon-pterosaur-onotgeny/

     

    Blogpost about decaying pterosaurs: https://archosaurmusings.wordpress.com/2017/07/24/soft-tissues-and-pterosaur-taphonomy-but-not-as-you-might-expect/

     

    Link to the paper on Rhamphorhynchus stomach contents and coprolite: https://peerj.com/articles/1191/

    Fossil Action Scenes: Dino Birth and Prehistoric Combat

    Fossil Action Scenes: Dino Birth and Prehistoric Combat

    Fossilized remains provide exciting insight into the biology and behavior of prehistoric beasts, but sometimes the fossil record gives us even more -- a bonafide action scene! In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explain fossilization and discuss examples of birth, mating behavior and deadly dinosaur-on-dinosaur combat written in the rocks.

    Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    TLS08E08 Were T.Rex 70 percent bigger?

    TLS08E08 Were T.Rex 70 percent bigger?

    The end of the series is our favourite - we answer your questions! 

    A massive thank you to our patrons who contributed the questions. Go to patreon.com/terriblelizardds for a bonus episode out next week.

    Do keep in touch #terriblelizards @iszi_lawrence @dave_hone

    Buy Dave's Book - How fast did T.Rex Run/The future of Dinosaurs.

    Look out for iszi's childrens books: Blackbeard's Treasure is out in January with Bloomsbury.

    RAWR!

    Episode 335: Dino DNA | Pterosaurs (Pteranodon, Dimorphodon and Quetzalcoatlus) with Palaeontologist / Palaeoartist Natalia Jagielska!

    Episode 335: Dino DNA | Pterosaurs (Pteranodon, Dimorphodon and Quetzalcoatlus) with Palaeontologist / Palaeoartist Natalia Jagielska!

    Find the full show notes at www.jurassicparkpodcast.com

    Welcome to The Jurassic Park Podcast! In episode 335, we check in on some Jurassic World Dominion News, including the box office and the film coming to Peacock. After that, we hear from Conor O’Keeffe with another installment of Dino DNA! Conor is joined by Paleontologist Natalia Jagielska to discuss the Pterosaurs of the Jurassic Franchise. Sit back, relax and ENJOY this episode of The Jurassic Park Podcast!

    News

    Don't forget to give our voicemail line a call at 732-825-7763!

    Email us: jurassicparkpod@gmail.com

    Book Club Email: jurassicparkbookclub@gmail.com

    Thanks for listening, stay safe and enjoy!