This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
A group of international scientists is to be hosted at Dinosaur Isle next week (Tuesday 25 August) as part of the ‘Flugsaurier’ conference, dedicated to the research of the giant prehistoric flying reptiles, the pterosaurs.
The conference is being held by the University of Portsmouth (led by former Island resident Dr Dave Martill), having previously being held in the USA, Brazil, China and mainland Europe.
This is the first time that the international conference has been hosted in England, and for its first day the event is convening on the Island.
Convening at Dinosaur Isle
Delegates from around the world will be joining staff from Dinosaur Isle to see the classic locality of some of the Island’s famous pterosaurs, such as the Caulkicephalus.
Caulkicephalus was discovered at Yaverland and formally named as a new species by Dr Martill and former museum staff member Dr Lorna Steel in 2005. The original remains of the specimen can now be seen on display at Dinosaur Isle.
During the afternoon of the event, hosted by the Friends of Dinosaur Isle, the international team will be studying the important collection of pterosaurs held at the museum.
High profile scientists
Dr Jeremy Lockwood, chair of the Friends of Dinosaur Isle, said:
“The Flugsaurier conference attracts some of the world’s foremost experts on pterosaurs and it is tremendous to know that such high profile scientists value our museum and are aware of the importance of the collection.”
Councillor Ian Stephens, Isle of Wight Council Executive member for tourism, culture and heritage, said:
“This visit and Dinosaur Isle’s inclusion in the conference is a real coup for the museum and the Island, and recognition at the highest level of the importance of the Island in this field.
“It also further underlines our determination on the Island to attract more top events and visitors to our shores, including experts in their field, to appreciate the many qualities, places of interest and attractions we have.
“I would like to congratulate staff at the museum and the Friends of Dinosaur Isle for their continuing excellent work and am delighted with the recognition they have received with this conference.”
Image: © Isle of Wight Council
