Body short and bird-like, with very long neck and a long digit, unto which an alary membrane has probably been attached.
Here belong plainly the fossilized species of a single genus known by the name of Pterodactylus. They have been hitherto discovered in different parts of Europe, and probably flew about, like the Bats, by night.
Order 5. Sensorial Reptiles.
3548. Teeth wedged into the jaws, toes regular.
Fam. 13. Thricozooid Reptilia, Shark-like—Crocodiles.
Feet and toes of equal length, with swimming webs between them.
The Crocodiles must be without doubt regarded as the most perfect Reptilia, on account of their notched teeth and regular feet. In many respects they remind us, like the Sharks do among Fishes, of the Thricozoa.
Twelfth Class.
Neurozoa, Otozoa—Aves.
3549. In these animals it is again shown in a striking manner, that the characteristic organ is the principle of classification. Without recourse being had to the varied structure of the head, especially of the beak, the division of Birds would not be possible, although the feet frequently yield good characters.