Fossil reveals new species of ancient Jurassic reptile which roamed UK
Isle of Skye fossil could be ancestor to all lizards and snakes
- An international team, including National Museums Scotland, has discovered a new species of Jurassic reptile fossil on the Isle of Skye.
- Named Breugnathair elgolensis, meaning 'false snake of Elgol', the creature lived about 167 million years ago.
- The reptile possessed snake-like jaws and recurved teeth, yet maintained the limbs and proportions of a lizard.
- This fossil is among the oldest and most complete Jurassic lizards known, suggesting it could be an ancestor to all lizards and snakes.
- Lead author Dr Roger Benson noted that its unique features might indicate snake ancestors were different from expectations or evolved early predatory habits.