BBC Focus Magazine

[Shadowwolf]

Giant insects ruled the prehistoric skies during periods when Earth's atmosphere was rich in oxygen. Then came the birds. After the evolution of birds about 150 million years ago, insects got smaller despite rising oxygen levels, according to a new study by scientists at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

Insects reached their biggest sizes about 300 million years ago during the late Carboniferous and early Permian periods. This was the reign of the predatory griffinflies, giant dragonfly-like insects with wingspans of up to 28 inches (70 centimeters). The leading theory attributes their large size to high oxygen concentrations in the atmosphere (over 30 percent, compared to 21 percent today), which allowed giant insects to get enough oxygen through the tiny breathing tubes that insects use instead of lungs.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/06/120604155703.htm

Griffinfly!?

[M Paul Lloyd]

Griffinfly!?

Griffin, mythical beast, Body of a Lion, head and wings of an Eagle.
Guardian of treasure in old legends of lore and the logo of Vauxhall Motors.

Not sure if it works as a kind of Fly though??