Dinosaurs: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
10 Biggest Dinosaurs
How heavy was Argentinosaurus? What was the wingspan of Quetzalcoatlus? Read this list of the 10 biggest dinosaurs (as well as non-dinosaur reptiles like pterosaurs, pliosaurs and therapsids) to find out.
How heavy was Argentinosaurus? What was the wingspan of Quetzalcoatlus? Read this list of the 10 biggest dinosaurs (as well as non-dinosaur reptiles like pterosaurs, pliosaurs and therapsids) to find out.
Dinosaurs A to C
A complete, A-Z list of every dinosaur that ever lived, including herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaurs, avian and aquatic reptiles, and the primitive reptiles that preceded (and lived alongside) the dinosaurs.
A complete, A-Z list of every dinosaur that ever lived, including herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaurs, avian and aquatic reptiles, and the primitive reptiles that preceded (and lived alongside) the dinosaurs.
Three Ages of Dinosaurs
A quick guide to the animals, plants, climate and geology of the Triassic period (250-208 million years ago).
A quick guide to the animals, plants, climate and geology of the Triassic period (250-208 million years ago).
Weirdest Dinosaurs
Not all dinosaurs (or archosaurs, or pterosaurs) sported the same plain-vanilla body plans. Some of these creatures stood out even by the bizarre standards of the Mesozoic Era, with strange adaptations that continue to puzzle paleontologists to the present day. Here’s a list of the 10 weirdest reptiles ever to walk (or crawl, or fly) the earth 100 million years ago.
Not all dinosaurs (or archosaurs, or pterosaurs) sported the same plain-vanilla body plans. Some of these creatures stood out even by the bizarre standards of the Mesozoic Era, with strange adaptations that continue to puzzle paleontologists to the present day. Here’s a list of the 10 weirdest reptiles ever to walk (or crawl, or fly) the earth 100 million years ago.
Sauropods
The sauropods were the true giants of the dinosaur family; some of them may have attained lengths of 100 feet and weights of 100 tons. Here's a brief overview of what makes a sauropod a sauropod, as well as an alphabetical list of genuses ranging from Apatosaurus to Vulcanodon.
The sauropods were the true giants of the dinosaur family; some of them may have attained lengths of 100 feet and weights of 100 tons. Here's a brief overview of what makes a sauropod a sauropod, as well as an alphabetical list of genuses ranging from Apatosaurus to Vulcanodon.
Raptors
Among the most feared predators of prehistoric times, raptors (also known as dromaeosaurs) were closely related to modern birds. Here's a look at how paleontologists classify raptors, as well as profiles of the most well-known genuses ranging from Achillobator to Utahraptor.
Among the most feared predators of prehistoric times, raptors (also known as dromaeosaurs) were closely related to modern birds. Here's a look at how paleontologists classify raptors, as well as profiles of the most well-known genuses ranging from Achillobator to Utahraptor.
Spinosaurus
This carnivore was distinguished by the sail-like structure on its back.
This carnivore was distinguished by the sail-like structure on its back.
Tyrannosaurus Rex
The once--and always--king of the dinosaurs.
The once--and always--king of the dinosaurs.
Fictional Dinosaurs
Dinosaurs aren't only found in dried-up riverbeds and ancient quarries--they can also be seen in TV shows, movies, comic strips and video games. Here's a selection of pop culture's most notable dinosaurs, most of which wouldn't stand a fighting chance against their paleontologically correct forebears.
Dinosaurs aren't only found in dried-up riverbeds and ancient quarries--they can also be seen in TV shows, movies, comic strips and video games. Here's a selection of pop culture's most notable dinosaurs, most of which wouldn't stand a fighting chance against their paleontologically correct forebears.
Crocodiles
Toward the end of the Triassic period 200 million years ago, the archosaurs ("ruling lizards") started to branch off into three major groups: the dinosaurs, the pterosaurs, and the crocodiles. Here's an overview of the crocodiles that lived alongside dinosaurs, as well as profiles of genuses ranging from Bernissartia to Stomatosuchus.
Toward the end of the Triassic period 200 million years ago, the archosaurs ("ruling lizards") started to branch off into three major groups: the dinosaurs, the pterosaurs, and the crocodiles. Here's an overview of the crocodiles that lived alongside dinosaurs, as well as profiles of genuses ranging from Bernissartia to Stomatosuchus.
Allosaurus
One of the most common predators of the Jurassic era.
One of the most common predators of the Jurassic era.
10 Deadliest Dinosaurs
Not all dinosaurs were equally dangerous--some were built for exceptional mayhem, sporting huge teeth, sharp claws, and (occasionally) even the ability to outwit their prey. Here's a list of the 10 fiercest, deadliest, and just plain most dangerous dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and aquatic reptiles. If you see one of these guys on the street--run!
Not all dinosaurs were equally dangerous--some were built for exceptional mayhem, sporting huge teeth, sharp claws, and (occasionally) even the ability to outwit their prey. Here's a list of the 10 fiercest, deadliest, and just plain most dangerous dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and aquatic reptiles. If you see one of these guys on the street--run!
Velociraptor
This dinosaur was vicious--but a lot smaller than you thought.
This dinosaur was vicious--but a lot smaller than you thought.
Argentinosaurus
Possibly the largest herbivore that ever lived.
Possibly the largest herbivore that ever lived.
Utahraptor
Probably the biggest raptor that ever lived.
Probably the biggest raptor that ever lived.
Tyrannosaurs
Tyrannosaurs (technically known as "tyrannosaurids") were the killing machines of the Cretaceous period: these huge, powerful beasts were all legs, trunk and teeth, and they preyed relentlessly on smaller, herbivorous dinosaurs. Here’s a look at how paleontologists classify tyrannosaurs, as well as profiles of the most notable genuses, ranging from T. Rex to Guanlong.
Tyrannosaurs (technically known as "tyrannosaurids") were the killing machines of the Cretaceous period: these huge, powerful beasts were all legs, trunk and teeth, and they preyed relentlessly on smaller, herbivorous dinosaurs. Here’s a look at how paleontologists classify tyrannosaurs, as well as profiles of the most notable genuses, ranging from T. Rex to Guanlong.
The 12 Main Dinosaur Groups
As much as our views about dinosaurs have changed over the past 100 years, one thing has remained constant: the major groups to which these ancient reptiles are assigned. Here are the 12 most important dinosaur families, ranging from ankylosaurs to tyrannosaurs, complete with links to additional information.
As much as our views about dinosaurs have changed over the past 100 years, one thing has remained constant: the major groups to which these ancient reptiles are assigned. Here are the 12 most important dinosaur families, ranging from ankylosaurs to tyrannosaurs, complete with links to additional information.
The First Mammals
It's not quite true that mammals succeeded the dinosaurs--they lived right alongside these lumbering beasts, in small, quivering, furry form, all through the Mesozoic Era. Here's a look at the evolution, anatomy and survival strategies of the early mammals of the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
It's not quite true that mammals succeeded the dinosaurs--they lived right alongside these lumbering beasts, in small, quivering, furry form, all through the Mesozoic Era. Here's a look at the evolution, anatomy and survival strategies of the early mammals of the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
Why Dinosaurs Were Big
Species by species, individual by individual, dinosaurs were bigger than any other land-dwelling animals that ever lived. Here are some theories that just might account for dinosaur gigantism.
Species by species, individual by individual, dinosaurs were bigger than any other land-dwelling animals that ever lived. Here are some theories that just might account for dinosaur gigantism.
Liopleurodon
This mean-looking pliosaur was one of the biggest of all marine reptiles.
This mean-looking pliosaur was one of the biggest of all marine reptiles.
Brachiosaurus
The giant, gentle, long-necked plant-eater.
The giant, gentle, long-necked plant-eater.
Plesiosaurs and Pliosaurs
During the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, the earth's oceans, lakes and rivers were filled by large, agile reptiles, called plesiosaurs and pliosaurs, that looked uncannily like sea serpents. Here's an overview of the evolution, behavior and characteristics of these fearsome creatures, along with a list of genuses ranging from Aristonectes to Woolungasaurus.
During the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, the earth's oceans, lakes and rivers were filled by large, agile reptiles, called plesiosaurs and pliosaurs, that looked uncannily like sea serpents. Here's an overview of the evolution, behavior and characteristics of these fearsome creatures, along with a list of genuses ranging from Aristonectes to Woolungasaurus.
Giganotosaurus
Not quite a "Gigantosaurus," but close enough.
Not quite a "Gigantosaurus," but close enough.
Triceratops
With its three horns, Triceratops was one of the most distinctive dinosaurs of the Mesozoic Era. Here's everything you need to know about this plant-eating dinosaur, complete with links to additional information.
With its three horns, Triceratops was one of the most distinctive dinosaurs of the Mesozoic Era. Here's everything you need to know about this plant-eating dinosaur, complete with links to additional information.
The 10 Smartest Dinosaurs
Pound for pound, dinosaurs were some of the dumbest creatures ever to roam the planet. However, not all raptors, tyrannosaurs, stegosaurs and hadrosaurs were equally stupid; some may even (just barely) have attained a mammalian level of intelligence. Here's a list of the 10 smartest dinosaurs, based on an analysis of their anatomy and behavioral patterns.
Pound for pound, dinosaurs were some of the dumbest creatures ever to roam the planet. However, not all raptors, tyrannosaurs, stegosaurs and hadrosaurs were equally stupid; some may even (just barely) have attained a mammalian level of intelligence. Here's a list of the 10 smartest dinosaurs, based on an analysis of their anatomy and behavioral patterns.
Before the Dinosaurs
Dinosaurs weren’t the first four-legged creatures to prosper on land. The Carboniferous and Permian periods witnessed a large variety of "primitive" terrestrial reptiles--many of which had surprisingly advanced features.
Dinosaurs weren’t the first four-legged creatures to prosper on land. The Carboniferous and Permian periods witnessed a large variety of "primitive" terrestrial reptiles--many of which had surprisingly advanced features.
Pterosaurs
Though they weren't technically dinosaurs, pterosaurs ("winged lizards") ruled the skies of the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods at the same time as their terrestrial cousins dominated the land. Here's a look at pterosaur evolution, behavior and physiology, along with a list of genuses ranging from Anurognathus to Zhejiangopterus.
Though they weren't technically dinosaurs, pterosaurs ("winged lizards") ruled the skies of the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods at the same time as their terrestrial cousins dominated the land. Here's a look at pterosaur evolution, behavior and physiology, along with a list of genuses ranging from Anurognathus to Zhejiangopterus.
Tyrannosaurus Rex Facts
Did you know that the average Tyrannosaurus Rex lived to be about 30 years old? Or that T. Rex babies may have been covered in feathers? Here are 10 essential facts about the king of the dinosaurs.
Did you know that the average Tyrannosaurus Rex lived to be about 30 years old? Or that T. Rex babies may have been covered in feathers? Here are 10 essential facts about the king of the dinosaurs.
Deinonychus
One of the most fearsome predators of the Cretaceous period.
One of the most fearsome predators of the Cretaceous period.
Ghost Ranch
Thousands of Coelophysis skeletons have been discovered here.
Thousands of Coelophysis skeletons have been discovered here.
Suchomimus
Pictures, illustrations and photographs of various theropods, ranging from Abelisaurus to Tyrannotitan.
Pictures, illustrations and photographs of various theropods, ranging from Abelisaurus to Tyrannotitan.
Dinosaur Mating
What we don't know about dinosaur mating can fill a library--after all, it's not as if the act of sex leaves fossil evidence. But we can make some educated guesses, based on the size of dinosaurs and their reptilian heritage.
What we don't know about dinosaur mating can fill a library--after all, it's not as if the act of sex leaves fossil evidence. But we can make some educated guesses, based on the size of dinosaurs and their reptilian heritage.
Ankylosaurs
Ankylosaurs were among the last dinosaurs standing 65 million years ago, and with good reason: these otherwise gentle herbivores were the Cretaceous equivalent of Sherman tanks, complete with armor plating, sharp spikes and heavy clubs. Here's a look at how paleontologists classify ankylosaurs, as well as profiles of genuses ranging from Acanthopholis to Tarchia.
Ankylosaurs were among the last dinosaurs standing 65 million years ago, and with good reason: these otherwise gentle herbivores were the Cretaceous equivalent of Sherman tanks, complete with armor plating, sharp spikes and heavy clubs. Here's a look at how paleontologists classify ankylosaurs, as well as profiles of genuses ranging from Acanthopholis to Tarchia.
How Did Dinosaurs Evolve?
Like all living creatures, dinosaurs evolved from preexisting ancestors. Here's an overview of current thinking about dino evolution.
Like all living creatures, dinosaurs evolved from preexisting ancestors. Here's an overview of current thinking about dino evolution.
Stegosaurus
The spike-tailed, small-brained plant eater.
The spike-tailed, small-brained plant eater.
Apatosaurus
The dinosaur formerly known as Brontosaurus.
The dinosaur formerly known as Brontosaurus.
Were Dinosaurs Warm-Blooded?
Although many people think the issue has been settled once and for all, scientists still debate whether dinosaurs were warm-blooded or cold-blooded (or something in between). Here's a look at the evidence for and against warm-blooded dinos.
Although many people think the issue has been settled once and for all, scientists still debate whether dinosaurs were warm-blooded or cold-blooded (or something in between). Here's a look at the evidence for and against warm-blooded dinos.
Quetzalcoatlus
One of the largest creatures ever to take to the sky.
One of the largest creatures ever to take to the sky.
Ceratopsians
Probably the oddest-looking dinosaurs that ever lived, ceratopsians--"horned faces"--included such familiar herbivores as Triceratops and Pentaceratops. Here's a look at how paleontologists define ceratopsians, along with links to a dozen representative genuses.
Probably the oddest-looking dinosaurs that ever lived, ceratopsians--"horned faces"--included such familiar herbivores as Triceratops and Pentaceratops. Here's a look at how paleontologists define ceratopsians, along with links to a dozen representative genuses.
Albertosaurus
This tyrannosaur was a close cousin of T. Rex.
This tyrannosaur was a close cousin of T. Rex.
Prehistoric Horses
Horses have come a long way since their tiny, ferret-sized ancestors prowled the woodlands of North America, 10 million years after the extinction of the dinosaurs. Here's a look at horse evolution, along with profiles of various prehistoric horse genuses.
Horses have come a long way since their tiny, ferret-sized ancestors prowled the woodlands of North America, 10 million years after the extinction of the dinosaurs. Here's a look at horse evolution, along with profiles of various prehistoric horse genuses.
Sarcosuchus
This Cretaceous "SuperCroc" put modern crocodiles to shame.
This Cretaceous "SuperCroc" put modern crocodiles to shame.
Velociraptor Facts
Next to T. Rex, Velociraptor is the most famous carnivorous dinosaur that ever lived. Here are 10 facts about this meat-eater that you may (or may not) have gleaned from repeated viewings of Jurassic Park.
Next to T. Rex, Velociraptor is the most famous carnivorous dinosaur that ever lived. Here are 10 facts about this meat-eater that you may (or may not) have gleaned from repeated viewings of Jurassic Park.
Saber-Toothed Cats
They weren't technically tigers, but the saber-toothed cats were every bit as dangerous to the grazing mammals (and early hominids) of their day. Here's a look at saber-tooth evolution and lifestyles, and profiles of various genuses of saber-toothed cats.
They weren't technically tigers, but the saber-toothed cats were every bit as dangerous to the grazing mammals (and early hominids) of their day. Here's a look at saber-tooth evolution and lifestyles, and profiles of various genuses of saber-toothed cats.
Luis Alvarez
He discovered the reason dinosaurs went extinct.
He discovered the reason dinosaurs went extinct.
10 Biggest Dinosaur Blunders
Paleontologists once believed that Stegosaurus had a brain its butt, that Brachiosaurus lived underwater, and that you could find Hypsilophodons nesting in trees. Here's a list of the 10 most notable mistakes in the history of dinosaur paleontology.
Paleontologists once believed that Stegosaurus had a brain its butt, that Brachiosaurus lived underwater, and that you could find Hypsilophodons nesting in trees. Here's a list of the 10 most notable mistakes in the history of dinosaur paleontology.
Ichthyosaurs
Although they weren't technically dinosaurs, ichthyosaurs ("fish lizards") ruled the Triassic and Jurassic oceans in much the same way tyrannosaurs ruled the continents. Here's a look at how paleontologists classify these sleek predators, along with profiles of genuses ranging from Californosaurus to Utatsusaurus.
Although they weren't technically dinosaurs, ichthyosaurs ("fish lizards") ruled the Triassic and Jurassic oceans in much the same way tyrannosaurs ruled the continents. Here's a look at how paleontologists classify these sleek predators, along with profiles of genuses ranging from Californosaurus to Utatsusaurus.
Ankylosaurus
The Cretaceous equivalent of a Sherman tank.
The Cretaceous equivalent of a Sherman tank.
Hadrosaurs
Among the last--and most common--dinosaurs to roam the earth, hadrosaurs were large, low-slung plant eaters with tough beaks on their snouts to dig out vegetation. Here’s a look at how paleontologists classify these duck-billed herbivores, as well as a list of the most notable genuses, ranging from Anatotitan to Telmatosaurus.
Among the last--and most common--dinosaurs to roam the earth, hadrosaurs were large, low-slung plant eaters with tough beaks on their snouts to dig out vegetation. Here’s a look at how paleontologists classify these duck-billed herbivores, as well as a list of the most notable genuses, ranging from Anatotitan to Telmatosaurus.
Archaeopteryx
This ancient, flying dinosaur was about the size of a modern pigeon.
This ancient, flying dinosaur was about the size of a modern pigeon.
Baryonyx
Long story short, you wouldn't want to clip this dinosaur's claws.
Long story short, you wouldn't want to clip this dinosaur's claws.
Five Smallest Dinosaurs
Not all dinosaurs were as big as houses--some were as small as wiener dogs, or even smaller. Here's a list of the five most diminutive dinos (plus a couple of aquatic and avian reptiles).
Not all dinosaurs were as big as houses--some were as small as wiener dogs, or even smaller. Here's a list of the five most diminutive dinos (plus a couple of aquatic and avian reptiles).
Diplodocus
"Thin at one end, much much thicker in the middle, and then thin again at the far end."
"Thin at one end, much much thicker in the middle, and then thin again at the far end."
Dinosaurs: Ancient Fossils, New Discoveries
Fossil pictures from the recent display at the American Museum of Natural History.
Fossil pictures from the recent display at the American Museum of Natural History.
Pachycephalosaurs
Twenty million years before the dinosaurs went extinct, a strange new breed evolved: medium-sized, four-legged herbivores with unusually thick skulls. Here's a look at current thinking about pachycephalosaurs ("thick-headed lizards"), as well as links to profiles of genuses ranging from Colepiocephale (Greek for "knucklehead") to Wannanosaurus.
Twenty million years before the dinosaurs went extinct, a strange new breed evolved: medium-sized, four-legged herbivores with unusually thick skulls. Here's a look at current thinking about pachycephalosaurs ("thick-headed lizards"), as well as links to profiles of genuses ranging from Colepiocephale (Greek for "knucklehead") to Wannanosaurus.
Carnotaurus
The shortest arms of any meat-eater--and horns to match.
The shortest arms of any meat-eater--and horns to match.
Ichthyosaurus
A remarkably fish-like reptile of the Jurassic period.
A remarkably fish-like reptile of the Jurassic period.
Dinosaur Jokes
Why did the T. Rex cross the road? How can you tell when there's a Stegosaurus in your refrigerator? Read this collection of dinosaur jokes and riddles to find out!
Why did the T. Rex cross the road? How can you tell when there's a Stegosaurus in your refrigerator? Read this collection of dinosaur jokes and riddles to find out!
Megalosaurus
The first dinosaur ever to be discovered and named.
The first dinosaur ever to be discovered and named.
Abelisaurus
"Abel's lizard" has been reconstructed from a single skull.
"Abel's lizard" has been reconstructed from a single skull.
Kronosaurus
This pliosaur made a great white shark seem like a guppy by comparison.
This pliosaur made a great white shark seem like a guppy by comparison.
Dinos and Creationists
Creationist don't believe in evolution, and insist that the earth is only a few thousand years old. How do dinosaurs fit in their world view?
Creationist don't believe in evolution, and insist that the earth is only a few thousand years old. How do dinosaurs fit in their world view?
Robert Bakker
A forceful believer in warm-blooded dinosaurs.
A forceful believer in warm-blooded dinosaurs.
Dinosaur Christmas Gifts
Wondering what to buy for your favorite dinosaur fan this Christmas season? Here's a list of the 10 best dinosaur-themed books, toys, DVDs and video games for both adults and kids.
Wondering what to buy for your favorite dinosaur fan this Christmas season? Here's a list of the 10 best dinosaur-themed books, toys, DVDs and video games for both adults and kids.
Parasaurolophus
Probably the loudest dinosaur that ever roamed the earth.
Probably the loudest dinosaur that ever roamed the earth.
10 Major Fossil Discoveries
Not every fossil dug up on a distant lakebed or arid mountain plain has had an equally profound effect on the course of dinosaur science. Here are 10 notable discoveries that changed, sharpened, or completely altered the views of working scientists (and the general public) about these long-extinct reptiles.
Not every fossil dug up on a distant lakebed or arid mountain plain has had an equally profound effect on the course of dinosaur science. Here are 10 notable discoveries that changed, sharpened, or completely altered the views of working scientists (and the general public) about these long-extinct reptiles.
Prehistoric Elephants
Modern elephants belong to a long and distinguished evolutionary line that dates back 60 million years, to shortly after the extinction of the dinosaurs. Here's a brief history of prehistoric pachyderms, along with profiles of extinct species ranging from Amebelodon to Stegomastodon.
Modern elephants belong to a long and distinguished evolutionary line that dates back 60 million years, to shortly after the extinction of the dinosaurs. Here's a brief history of prehistoric pachyderms, along with profiles of extinct species ranging from Amebelodon to Stegomastodon.
All About Spinosaurus
The sail-backed Spinosaurus was the largest carnivorous dinosaur that ever lived. Here's everything you need to know about this fearsome meat-eater, complete with links to additional information.
The sail-backed Spinosaurus was the largest carnivorous dinosaur that ever lived. Here's everything you need to know about this fearsome meat-eater, complete with links to additional information.
Prehistoric Whales
It may be hard to believe, but modern whales evolved from terrestrial, dog-sized mammals that roamed central Asia about 50 million years ago. Here's the story of cetacean evolution, along with profiles of a dozen prehistoric species.
It may be hard to believe, but modern whales evolved from terrestrial, dog-sized mammals that roamed central Asia about 50 million years ago. Here's the story of cetacean evolution, along with profiles of a dozen prehistoric species.
Deinosuchus
One of the biggest crocodiles of the Cretaceous period.
One of the biggest crocodiles of the Cretaceous period.
Archelon
A dinosaur-sized turtle of the late Cretaceous.
A dinosaur-sized turtle of the late Cretaceous.
Acanthopholis
No, it's not a city in Greece.
No, it's not a city in Greece.
Strange Dinosaur Names
After long, weary months collecting bones out in the field, cleaning them in the lab with tiny toothpicks, and laboriously piecing them together for display or further study, paleontologists can be forgiven for occasionally bestowing strange names on the objects of their research. Here are the 10 dinosaurs with the weirdest, funniest, and (in one or two cases) most inappropriate names.
After long, weary months collecting bones out in the field, cleaning them in the lab with tiny toothpicks, and laboriously piecing them together for display or further study, paleontologists can be forgiven for occasionally bestowing strange names on the objects of their research. Here are the 10 dinosaurs with the weirdest, funniest, and (in one or two cases) most inappropriate names.
Iguanodon
Only the second dinosaur in history ever to receive a name.
Only the second dinosaur in history ever to receive a name.
Barosaurus
An enormous plant-eater with a tiny head.
An enormous plant-eater with a tiny head.
Sauroposeidon
One of the tallest dinosaurs ever to walk the earth.
One of the tallest dinosaurs ever to walk the earth.
Dracorex
The only dinosaur to be named after the Harry Potter< books.
The only dinosaur to be named after the Harry Potter< books.
Dinosaur Life Spans
Did dinosaurs live for hundreds of years, like modern tortoises, or did they have "mammalian" life spans that could be measured in years or decades? Here's what we currently know about how long dinosaurs lived, and the issues that complicate calculations of dinosaur life spans.
Did dinosaurs live for hundreds of years, like modern tortoises, or did they have "mammalian" life spans that could be measured in years or decades? Here's what we currently know about how long dinosaurs lived, and the issues that complicate calculations of dinosaur life spans.
Compsognathus
The size of a chicken, but much meaner.
The size of a chicken, but much meaner.
Mamenchisaurus
The longest-necked dinosaur that ever lived.
The longest-necked dinosaur that ever lived.
Elasmosaurus
From head to tail, the longest plesiosaur that ever lived.
From head to tail, the longest plesiosaur that ever lived.
Pliohippus
This prehistoric horse was built for speed.
This prehistoric horse was built for speed.
Pliosaurus
A complete skeleton if this giant swimmer was recently found in Norway.
A complete skeleton if this giant swimmer was recently found in Norway.
How Smart Were Dinosaurs?
Did all dinosaurs have a brain the size of a walnut, or might some of them have been as smart as very small mammals? Here's a look at modern views of dinosaur intelligence.
Did all dinosaurs have a brain the size of a walnut, or might some of them have been as smart as very small mammals? Here's a look at modern views of dinosaur intelligence.
Pteranodon
What folks usually refer to when the say "pterodactyl."
What folks usually refer to when the say "pterodactyl."
Styracosaurus
Winner of the "most elaborate head display" competition.
Winner of the "most elaborate head display" competition.
John H. Ostrom
The first scientist to realize that dinosaurs evolved into birds.
The first scientist to realize that dinosaurs evolved into birds.
What Is a Dinosaur?
The scientific definition of what constitutes a "dinosaur" is a lot more involved than you might think. Here's a brief explanation.
The scientific definition of what constitutes a "dinosaur" is a lot more involved than you might think. Here's a brief explanation.
Ornithopods
Ornithopods--small- to medium-sized, mostly bipedal herbivores--were among the most common dinosaurs, roaming the plains and woodlands of the Mesozoic Era in vast herds. Here's what we currently know about these gentle plant-eaters, along with a list of notable genuses.
Ornithopods--small- to medium-sized, mostly bipedal herbivores--were among the most common dinosaurs, roaming the plains and woodlands of the Mesozoic Era in vast herds. Here's what we currently know about these gentle plant-eaters, along with a list of notable genuses.
Ampelosaurus
One of the best-known of the armored titanosaurs.
One of the best-known of the armored titanosaurs.
Supersaurus
Pictures, photos and illustrations of sauropod dinosaurs, ranging from Apatosaurus to Vulcanodon.
Pictures, photos and illustrations of sauropod dinosaurs, ranging from Apatosaurus to Vulcanodon.
Carcharodontosaurus
Its name means "great white shark lizard." Impressed yet?
Its name means "great white shark lizard." Impressed yet?
Coelophysis
One of the most ancient dinosaurs known.
One of the most ancient dinosaurs known.
12 Best Dinosaurs
There were literally hundreds of kinds of dinosaurs, but only twelve that merit memorization by eager dinosaur lovers, young or old. Here are the dozen dinosaurs every kid and adult should have down cold, ranging from T. Rex to Triceratops.
There were literally hundreds of kinds of dinosaurs, but only twelve that merit memorization by eager dinosaur lovers, young or old. Here are the dozen dinosaurs every kid and adult should have down cold, ranging from T. Rex to Triceratops.
Bambiraptor
Yes, this tiny raptor was named after you-know-who.
Yes, this tiny raptor was named after you-know-who.
History of T. Rex
How do we know what we know about T. Rex? Here's a timeline of the pertinent fossil discoveries.
How do we know what we know about T. Rex? Here's a timeline of the pertinent fossil discoveries.
Troodon
Possibly the smartest dinosaur that ever lived.
Possibly the smartest dinosaur that ever lived.
Pterodactyl
When most people use the word pterodactyl, they're usually referring to two specific genuses of pterosaur, pterodactylus or pteranodon. Here are some basic facts about these flying reptiles, with links to additional information.
When most people use the word pterodactyl, they're usually referring to two specific genuses of pterosaur, pterodactylus or pteranodon. Here are some basic facts about these flying reptiles, with links to additional information.
Dinosaur Footprints
A dinosaur could only fossilize once--but it could leave behind millions of footprints in its lifetime. Here's how fossil footprints are investigated by paleontologists, and what they can tell us about how dinosaurs lived (and died).
A dinosaur could only fossilize once--but it could leave behind millions of footprints in its lifetime. Here's how fossil footprints are investigated by paleontologists, and what they can tell us about how dinosaurs lived (and died).
Mosasaurus
The first giant aquatic reptile ever to receive a name.
The first giant aquatic reptile ever to receive a name.
Dinosaur Classification
How do paleontologists classify long-extinct dinosaurs? Here's a quick guide to the major orders, suborders and infraorders of dinosaurs, according to the state of current research.
How do paleontologists classify long-extinct dinosaurs? Here's a quick guide to the major orders, suborders and infraorders of dinosaurs, according to the state of current research.
Titanosaurs
By the end of the Cretaceous period, the only sauropods left standing were the titanosaurs--mysterious, armored plant-eaters whose partial skeletons have been found all over the world. Here's a look at how these strange creatures are classified, along with profiles of genuses ranging from Aegyptosaurus to Saltasaurus.
By the end of the Cretaceous period, the only sauropods left standing were the titanosaurs--mysterious, armored plant-eaters whose partial skeletons have been found all over the world. Here's a look at how these strange creatures are classified, along with profiles of genuses ranging from Aegyptosaurus to Saltasaurus.
Cryolophosaurus
This crested carnivore was once known as "Elvisaurus."
This crested carnivore was once known as "Elvisaurus."
Sauropod Quiz
Do you know which dinosaur used to be named Brontosaurus, or what the "pod" in sauropod stands for? Take this fun quiz and test your sauropod smarts!
Do you know which dinosaur used to be named Brontosaurus, or what the "pod" in sauropod stands for? Take this fun quiz and test your sauropod smarts!
10 Influential Paleontologists
If it weren't for the efforts of thousands of paleontologists, evolutionary biologists and geologists, we wouldn't know nearly as much about dinosaurs as we do today. Here's a list of 10 dinosaur hunters who have contributed more to our knowledge of these ancient reptiles than anyone else in the field.
If it weren't for the efforts of thousands of paleontologists, evolutionary biologists and geologists, we wouldn't know nearly as much about dinosaurs as we do today. Here's a list of 10 dinosaur hunters who have contributed more to our knowledge of these ancient reptiles than anyone else in the field.
Dino-WHAT?
Dinosaurs weren't the only animals to grow to huge sizes in prehistoric times. Here's a list of assorted amoebas, rats, parrots and beavers that outclassed their contemporaries.
Dinosaurs weren't the only animals to grow to huge sizes in prehistoric times. Here's a list of assorted amoebas, rats, parrots and beavers that outclassed their contemporaries.
Minmi
An early (and very dumb) ankylosaur from Australia .
An early (and very dumb) ankylosaur from Australia .
K/T Extinction
What caused the sudden extinction of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago? Most scientists blame an astronomical impact.
What caused the sudden extinction of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago? Most scientists blame an astronomical impact.
Dong Zhiming
This Chinese paleontologist has discovered a huge number of dinosaurs.
This Chinese paleontologist has discovered a huge number of dinosaurs.
Dinosaur Children
Until recent discoveries of ancient nesting grounds, paleontologists knew virtually nothing about how (or even if) dinosaurs cared for their young. Here's a look at the current state of though about dinosaur child rearing.
Until recent discoveries of ancient nesting grounds, paleontologists knew virtually nothing about how (or even if) dinosaurs cared for their young. Here's a look at the current state of though about dinosaur child rearing.
Therizinosaurus
What did Little Orphan Annie say when she saw this dinosaur? "Reaping lizards!"
What did Little Orphan Annie say when she saw this dinosaur? "Reaping lizards!"
The Origins of Flight
There are two theories about how feathered dinosaurs started to fly, which can be loosely classified as "bottom up" and "top down." Here's a look at the evidence for and against each, and the current state of thinking among paleontologists.
There are two theories about how feathered dinosaurs started to fly, which can be loosely classified as "bottom up" and "top down." Here's a look at the evidence for and against each, and the current state of thinking among paleontologists.
Gomphotherium
One of the earliest shovel-toothed elephants.
One of the earliest shovel-toothed elephants.
Tylosaurus
A slim, sleek mosasaur of the late Cretaceous.
A slim, sleek mosasaur of the late Cretaceous.
Lawrence M. Lambe
One of the first, and most famous, of the Canadian fossil hunters.
One of the first, and most famous, of the Canadian fossil hunters.
Shonisaurus
The largest ichthyosaur yet to be discovered.
The largest ichthyosaur yet to be discovered.
Seismosaurus
It was huge, to be sure--but might it have been a species of Diplodocus?
It was huge, to be sure--but might it have been a species of Diplodocus?
Dinosaur Combat
Teeth, claws, horns, spikes and clubs--dinosaurs had the most impressive armament of any creatures that ever lived. Here's how raptors, tyrannosaurs, ankylosaurs and other kinds of dinosaur wielded their weapons, and why they fought each other in the first place.
Teeth, claws, horns, spikes and clubs--dinosaurs had the most impressive armament of any creatures that ever lived. Here's how raptors, tyrannosaurs, ankylosaurs and other kinds of dinosaur wielded their weapons, and why they fought each other in the first place.
Euoplocephalus
Even this ankylosaur’s eyelids were armored.
Even this ankylosaur’s eyelids were armored.
Protosuchus
This land crocodile competed for prey with early dinosaurs.
This land crocodile competed for prey with early dinosaurs.
Ceratosaurus
This primitive carnivore is hard for paleontologists to classify.
This primitive carnivore is hard for paleontologists to classify.
Afrovenator
One of the few carnivores ever to be dug up in north Africa.
One of the few carnivores ever to be dug up in north Africa.
Cryptoclidus
A classic, sleek, long-necked plesiosaur.
A classic, sleek, long-necked plesiosaur.
Hyracotherium
The horse formerly known as Eohippus.
The horse formerly known as Eohippus.
Plesiosaurus
This long-necked swimmer set the standard for aquatic reptiles.
This long-necked swimmer set the standard for aquatic reptiles.
Big Theropods
We know all about tyrannosaurs and raptors, but those two families comprised only a small percentage of the bipedal, carnivorous dinosaurs known as theropods. Here's a look at the larger theropods of the Mesozoic Era, including allosaurs and abelisaurs, as well as profiles of representative theropod genuses.
We know all about tyrannosaurs and raptors, but those two families comprised only a small percentage of the bipedal, carnivorous dinosaurs known as theropods. Here's a look at the larger theropods of the Mesozoic Era, including allosaurs and abelisaurs, as well as profiles of representative theropod genuses.
Anatotitan
This hadrosaur's name means "giant duck."
This hadrosaur's name means "giant duck."
Antarctopelta
The first dinosaur fossil ever found in Antarctica .
The first dinosaur fossil ever found in Antarctica .
Microraptor
This tiny dinosaur had a birdlike appearance--but with four wings rather than two.
This tiny dinosaur had a birdlike appearance--but with four wings rather than two.
Dilong
This "emperor dragon" may have been an ancestor of T. Rex.
This "emperor dragon" may have been an ancestor of T. Rex.
Top 5 Dino Movies
A list of the five best dinosaur movies of all time, from your About.com Dinosaur guide.
A list of the five best dinosaur movies of all time, from your About.com Dinosaur guide.
Achillobator
This fierce raptor was discovered in modern-day Mongolia.
This fierce raptor was discovered in modern-day Mongolia.
Aristonectes
One of the last plesiosaurs left before the K/T extinction.
One of the last plesiosaurs left before the K/T extinction.
Oviraptor
Turns out that this "egg thief" got a bad rap.
Turns out that this "egg thief" got a bad rap.
Protoceratops Fight
It’s got way too many syllables to be turned into a Hollywood movie, but a spectacular fossil find shows these two dinosaurs engaged in heated combat.
It’s got way too many syllables to be turned into a Hollywood movie, but a spectacular fossil find shows these two dinosaurs engaged in heated combat.
Robert Broom
An early expert in the "mammal-like" reptiles.
An early expert in the "mammal-like" reptiles.
Safari Dinosaur Replicas
A list of museum-quality dinosaur replicas manufactured by Safari, Ltd., and sold on Amazon.com.
A list of museum-quality dinosaur replicas manufactured by Safari, Ltd., and sold on Amazon.com.
Tyrannosaurus Rex
Pictures, illustrations and photographs of Tyrannosaurus Rex, the world's most popular dinosaur.
Pictures, illustrations and photographs of Tyrannosaurus Rex, the world's most popular dinosaur.
Merychippus
An important intermediate step in equine evolution.
An important intermediate step in equine evolution.
Sue Hendrickson
Famous for finding an intact skeleton of T. Rex.
Famous for finding an intact skeleton of T. Rex.
Smilodon
What most folks know as the "saber-toothed tiger."
What most folks know as the "saber-toothed tiger."
Zuniceratops
This horned dinosaur was discovered by an eight-year-old boy.
This horned dinosaur was discovered by an eight-year-old boy.
Lystrosaurus
This pig-like reptile preceded the dinosaurs.
This pig-like reptile preceded the dinosaurs.
Silly Extinct Dinosaurs
We all know about dinosaurs like T. Rex and Stegosaurus that met their doom 65 million years ago, during the K/T Extinction. But what about the lesser-known dinos that appeared briefly during the Mesozoic Era, only to quickly disperse into the mists of history?
We all know about dinosaurs like T. Rex and Stegosaurus that met their doom 65 million years ago, during the K/T Extinction. But what about the lesser-known dinos that appeared briefly during the Mesozoic Era, only to quickly disperse into the mists of history?
Pterodactylus
The first pterosaur ever to be discovered--and still the most famous.
The first pterosaur ever to be discovered--and still the most famous.
Coprolites
How dinosaurs went to the bathroom, and how fossilized dinosaur dung can be a useful tool for archeologists.
How dinosaurs went to the bathroom, and how fossilized dinosaur dung can be a useful tool for archeologists.
Dimorphodon
This big-headed pterosaur had two distinct types of teeth.
This big-headed pterosaur had two distinct types of teeth.
Orohippus
Pictures, illustrations and photographs of prehistoric horses, ranging from Anchitherium to Pliohippus.
Pictures, illustrations and photographs of prehistoric horses, ranging from Anchitherium to Pliohippus.
Brachylophosaurus
This duck-billed dinosaur's beak looked more like a parrot's.
This duck-billed dinosaur's beak looked more like a parrot's.
Alioramus
All we know of this tyrannosaur is based on a single skull.
All we know of this tyrannosaur is based on a single skull.