Pterodactylus is a genus of extinct pterosaurs that lived during the Late Jurassic Period. These prehistoric creatures were named for their distinctive elongated fingers, which supported a thin membrane of skin, making them capable of flight. Some synonyms for Pterodactylus include Ornithocephalus, Rhamphorhynchus, and Anurognathus. These names are also associated with pterosaurs and have similar characteristics to Pterodactylus, including their distinct wings and elongated fingers. As fossils, these creatures continue to fascinate scientists and the public alike, providing crucial insights into the evolution of flight and the natural world overall.