Some think it rocked forward on its wingtips like a vampire bat. Or that it built up speed by running and flapping like an albatross. Or that it didn’t fly at all. But according to new research, the mammoth creature probably leaped, jumping at least 8 feet into the air before lifting off by sweeping its wings.

As a general rule, scientists suggest that, unlike most modern birds, Quetzalcoatlus launched into flight on all fours by crouching and leaping. The strength of these limbs allowed them to make the powered flight by flapping and gliding.

One analysis suggests that this pterosaur vaulted itself into the air using its heavily muscled front legs, and only secondarily employed its long, spindly hind limbs, kind of like a rudder during takeoff. There's also a compelling case to be made that Quetzalcoatlus had no aerodynamic choice but to launch itself over the edge of steep cliffs! 04

Paleontologists estimate that Quetzalcoatlus could have flown at speeds up to 128 kilometers per hour (80 miles per hour) and could have traveled 643 kilometers (400 miles) a day. Its powerful muscles may have allowed it to launch itself into the air quickly.

Some could soar through the air if they caught a draft, but their flying abilities were limited, while others were skilled fliers like the Archaeopteryx. The Quetzalcoatlus could take off from the ground with a jump start and could reach speeds of up to 80 miles per hour!