Polycotilid Skeleton

Real Fossil - Cretaceous 70 Mya - Morocco
Polycotylids have been found worldwide, including several larger species in northern Wyoming. Belonging to a large group called Plesiosauridae, the polycotylids lived exclusively during the Cretaceous Period. Distinguishing characteristics include a short neck, elongated head, and a narrow snout. Their lack of a long tail indicates their main propulsive force came from the limbs, unlike many modern aquatic reptiles.