Everything Dinosaur Blog - Dinosaur Models

20 08, 2026

What Makes a Scientifically Accurate Dinosaur Model?

By Mike|2026-08-20T13:58:04+01:00August 20th, 2026|Categories: Educational Activities|0 Comments

What makes a scientifically accurate dinosaur model? This is a question that dinosaur fans and model collectors frequently ask us. Our understanding of the Dinosauria is constantly changing. Therefore, creating an accurate prehistoric animal figure is challenging. For example, until recently anyone making a model of Nanotyrannus could not be certain that their figure represented a valid genus. However, recent research has demonstrated that N. lancensis is probably a valid taxon. Furthermore, there could be two species of mid-sized tyrannosauroids in the North American fossil record.

The new for 2021 PNSO Nanotyrannus dinosaur model. When this model was introduced, there were some doubts about the validity of this taxon.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s blog posts about the recent research exploring the validity of Nanotyrannus: Nanotyrannus – A New Chapter in Tyrannosaur Evolution.

A second blog post reaffirming the validity of the Nanotyrannus taxon: New Paper on the Nanotyrannus Genus.

Manufacturers have access to more scientific information than ever before. However, producing a credible dinosaur model involves much more than simply copying a fossil skeleton.

Studying the Dinosaur Fossils

A scientifically accurate dinosaur model should reflect the known fossil evidence. For example, palaeontologists can examine bones to determine body proportions and posture. Fossils can also provide information about muscle attachment. Exceptionally preserved specimens reveal even more. Skin impressions can provide evidence about scales and other integumentary structures. Furthermore, fossilised feathers have transformed our understanding of many theropod dinosaurs. In addition, some remarkable specimens even provide evidence of internal organs.

Even footprints can help. Dinosaur tracks provide information about stance, locomotion and how the feet contacted the ground. Scales preserved on the footprints can provide information on the integument of the foot.

A fossil dinosaur footprint photographed at the London Natural History Museum. The exhibit features a three-toed print from the famous Lark Quarry track site in Australia. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Reconstructing the Missing Parts

Unfortunately, dinosaur skeletons are rarely complete. Consequently, palaeoartists and model makers must interpret missing information. Closely related species can provide useful anatomical clues. In addition, living animals such as birds and crocodilians can help scientists understand dinosaur soft tissues. Some types of prehistoric creature such as the sauropods and pterosaurs have no living analogues. Therefore, some features remain speculative.

Colour is an obvious difficulty. Scientists have identified evidence of pigmentation in a small number of exceptionally preserved fossils. For most dinosaurs, their colouration remains unknown. However, research papers can provide hope. For example, a paper was recently published that provided some evidence of the colour of diplodocid dinosaurs.

Evidence of the colour of long-necked dinosaurs: Sauropod Skin Study Reveals Colour Patterning.

Even so, a scientifically accurate dinosaur model can still include an element of artistic interpretation. Indeed, our own Everything Dinosaur Evolution Tyrannosaurus rex model has a highly sophisticated colour scheme. Although the colour of T. rex is unknown, an informed judgement can be made by considering the palaeoenvironment, countershading, visual display behaviours and the need to regulate body temperature.

Everything Dinosaur Evolution T. rex is now in stock.

The Everything Dinosaur Evolution range is now in stock. The Tyrannosaurus rex figure has an extremely sophisticated colour scheme. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the Everything Dinosaur Evolution range of scientifically accurate models: Everything Dinosaur Evolution Tyrannosaurus Model.

Scientific Research Changes Dinosaur Models

Scientific accuracy is not fixed. New discoveries can change how an extinct animal is reconstructed. For instance, dinosaur models from several decades ago often depicted large theropods standing upright with their tails dragging along the ground. Scientists now know that these dinosaurs held their bodies much more horizontally. Their tails helped to counterbalance the front of the body. Furthermore, we know that many types of dinosaurs were feathered, a concept that many movie franchises have yet to grasp. Moreover, there is growing evidence to support the idea that many archosaurs had lips.

Our understanding of feathers has changed too. Many dinosaurs once depicted with completely scaly bodies are now reconstructed with extensive feather coverings. As the science changes, dinosaur models change with it.

Getting the Details Right

An accurate model should consider the entire animal rather than concentrating solely on the skull. Hands, feet, limbs and body proportions are important too. Small anatomical details can make a considerable difference. The orientation of the hands of a theropod is one example. The number and position of fingers and toes should also reflect the fossil evidence.

Similarly, the arrangement of horns, crests, armour and other structures should be based on the available scientific data. Scale is another consideration. A model described as being in a particular scale should reflect reasonable estimates for the size of the prehistoric animal. In the past, many dinosaurs were thought to have moved like extant lizards. Their limbs were not directly under the body but held to the side. Such old-fashioned depictions can still be seen today.

Bas-relief Stegosaurus at the Berlin Aquarium.

The Stegosaurus motif from the Berlin Aquarium. The aquarium building was built between 1911 and 1913. The dinosaur motifs such as this Stegosaurus relief reflect the scientific knowledge at the time. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Working with Scientists and Artists

Many manufacturers consult palaeontologists and specialist palaeoartists when developing prehistoric animal figures. This collaboration can help turn scientific research into a three-dimensional reconstruction. Scientific papers, skeletal drawings and fossil photographs can all contribute to the design process. Museum specimens may also provide valuable reference material.

However, attention to detail remains essential. A beautiful dinosaur model is not necessarily an accurate one.

What Makes a Scientifically Accurate Dinosaur Model?

Ultimately, the best dinosaur reconstructions combine scientific evidence with informed interpretation. They reflect what palaeontologists currently know while acknowledging areas of uncertainty. No dinosaur model can be guaranteed to remain scientifically accurate forever. A new fossil discovery could change our understanding tomorrow. Palaeontology has a long history of correcting previously held hypotheses. For example, the Iguanodon statues on display at Crystal Palace have horns on their snouts that we now know to be a thumb spike.

A pair of Iguanodons study the Crystal Palace landscape. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

At Everything Dinosaur, we welcome these changes. New discoveries give scientists, palaeoartists, model makers and dinosaur enthusiasts fresh opportunities to reconsider what these extraordinary animals might have looked like.

Mike commented:

“Perhaps that is part of the appeal of prehistoric animal model collecting. Dinosaur models provide a snapshot of scientific knowledge at a particular moment in time. As palaeontology advances, our models of these remarkable prehistoric animals evolve as well.”

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Scientifically Accurate Dinosaur Models.

19 08, 2026

An Exclusive CollectA Deluxe Magnapaulia Model Video

By Mike|2026-08-20T07:45:03+01:00August 19th, 2026|Categories: Everything Dinosaur videos|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur has produced a short video highlighting a recently introduced CollectA Deluxe dinosaur model. We have created an exclusive CollectA Deluxe Magnapaulia model video. This impressive hadrosaur figure is in stock and available from Everything Dinosaur.

The video provides a close-up view of this remarkable 1:60 scale lambeosaurine. It also highlights some of the details incorporated into the model.

The CollectA Magnapaulia model, a replica of one of the giant lambeosaurine dinosaur from north-western Mexico.

To view the range of CollectA Deluxe scale models of prehistoric animals in stock: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Life Figures.

The CollectA Deluxe Magnapaulia Model Video

The CollectA Deluxe Magnapaulia measures approximately 20.5 cm in length. It represents the species Magnapaulia laticaudus, one of the largest duck-billed dinosaurs known to science. This huge lambeosaurine lived during the Late Cretaceous. Its fossils come from the El Gallo Formation of Baja California in north-western Mexico.

The model has a spectacular red head crest and a brightly coloured throat wattle. Moreover, whilst speculative these features hint at the importance of visual signalling in these dinosaurs. In addition, CollectA has carefully recreated the unusual skin texture of this enormous herbivore.

The CollectA Deluxe Magnapaulia model (1:60 scale).

The CollectA Deluxe 1:60 scale Magnapaulia figure.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Fossilised skin impressions associated with Magnapaulia reveal different scale sizes. Larger, rounded scales occurred alongside much smaller scales. CollectA has incorporated these features into its reconstruction.

A Giant Lambeosaurine Hadrosaur

Scientists originally assigned the fossil material to Lambeosaurus. Subsequently, researchers proposed other classifications. However, a detailed reassessment led to the establishment of the genus Magnapaulia in 2012. Everything Dinosaur supplies a free Magnapaulia fact sheet with the CollectA Deluxe Magnapaulia figure.

Furthermore, the dinosaur had extremely tall neural spines along much of its back and tail. These features would have given the animal a deep-bodied appearance. Intriguingly, Magnapaulia possessed an exceptionally broad and powerful tail. When first studied, it was suggested that this dinosaur was semi-aquatic. Our short video highlights this point.

Size estimates vary. Nevertheless, Magnapaulia laticaudus was undoubtedly a giant hadrosaur. Some estimates suggest that particularly large individuals could have exceeded twelve metres in length. Once again, our short video comments on the size and the weight of this herbivorous dinosaur.

Watch the Magnapaulia Model Video

Want to see the model in more detail? Everything Dinosaur recommends our short video showcasing this remarkable CollectA figure.

Watch the CollectA Deluxe Magnapaulia video on the Everything Dinosaur YouTube channel: Everything Dinosaur on YouTube.

The short video provides collectors with views of the model from several angles. Therefore, viewers can examine the colour scheme, body proportions and detailing before adding the figure to their collection.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“The CollectA Deluxe Magnapaulia is in stock at Everything Dinosaur. Furthermore, customers receive a free Everything Dinosaur Magnapaulia laticaudus fact sheet with purchases of this model”.

The multi-award-winning Everything Dinosaur shop: Models of Prehistoric Animals.

18 08, 2026

A Passion for Dinosaurs and for Looking After Customers

By Mike|2026-08-20T10:22:38+01:00August 18th, 2026|Categories: Dinosaur Fans|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur has always combined a passion for dinosaurs with a commitment to excellent customer service. Therefore, we were delighted to receive another five-star Feefo review. Furthermore, this is our twenty-fourth 5-star review received this month (August 2026).

An Everything Dinosaur customer acknowledges our passion for dinosaurs in another five-star customer service review. Picture credit: Feefo.

Picture credit: Feefo

In their review, the customer wrote:

“Consistently the best online service I’ve experienced, with a passion for the subject they deal with. Thank you.”

Our thanks for the kind and generous comment.

Sharing Our Passion for Dinosaurs

Such kind comments mean a great deal to Sue and I. We work hard to provide a friendly, knowledgeable and reliable service. Our passion for dinosaurs and prehistoric animals influences everything we do. For example, we carefully select the prehistoric animal models that we stock. In addition, we provide free fact sheets with orders and regularly publish articles about new fossil discoveries and scientific research. In addition, we answer lots of questions about dinosaurs via email and social media, we even have dinosaur fans visit our offices and warehouse.

Most importantly, we value our customers. We want dinosaur fans and model collectors to enjoy shopping with Everything Dinosaur. Consequently, we aim to answer questions promptly, pack parcels carefully and keep customers informed about their orders.

Thank You for the Five-Star Review

We are extremely grateful for this latest five-star Feefo review. Customer feedback helps us maintain high standards and encourages us to keep improving. Everything Dinosaur remains a small, specialist company with a big passion for dinosaurs. We are delighted when customers recognise both our enthusiasm for prehistoric animals and our dedication to providing excellent service.

Sue from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“A huge thank you to the reviewer for their kind words and continued support. We try our best to help.”

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Figures and Prehistoric Animal Models.

17 08, 2026

A New Late Jurassic Ichthyosaur from the German Plattenkalk Deposits

By Mike|2026-08-19T15:15:18+01:00August 17th, 2026|Categories: Palaeontological articles|0 Comments

Scientists have described a new species of Jurassic ichthyosaur from southern Germany. The new species named Jabalisaurus tethyensis, lived around 149 million years ago during the Late Jurassic (Tithonian faunal stage). Remarkably, some fossils assigned to Jabalisaurus tethyensis had previously been classified as Aegirosaurus. The research highlights the hidden diversity of ichthyosaurs in the famous German Plattenkalk deposits.

The scientific paper (open access) has been published in the journal “Palaeontologia Electronica”.

Ophthalmosaurian ichthyosaur life reconstruction.

A life reconstruction of a Late Jurassic ophthalmosaurian ichthyosaur. Note the presence of a rhamphorhynchid pterosaur in the distance. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

A Revision of Late Jurassic Ichthyosaurs

Ichthyosaurs were highly specialised, superbly adapted marine reptiles. They first appeared during the Early Triassic and survived into the early Late Cretaceous. It had been thought that ichthyosaur diversity was greatest during the first ten million years of their evolution. Such diversity was initiated by radiation to diverse marine habitats and the development of a range of dietary niches. However, in contrast to this view, there has been an increasingly amount of evidence presented indicating the Tithonian as another high point in ichthyosaur diversity.

Southern Germany has produced many spectacular Late Jurassic fossils. These include fishes, turtles, marine reptiles, dinosaurs and early birds such as Archaeopteryx. However, ichthyosaur fossils are relatively rare.

Ichthyosaur fossils from the Bavarian Plattenkalk deposits of southern Germany were first described during the 1850s. Numerous taxa were erected. Unfortunately, none of the original fossil material is still available for study. Hence, only a single genus has been documented from these rocks – Aegirosaurus leptospondylus. In addition, the number of ichthyosaurs assigned to the Ophthalmosauridae family has dramatically increased. There are now more than twenty genera of ophthalmosaurian ichthyosaurs known. As a result of the increased data set, fossils previously assigned to the ophthalmosaur A. leptospondylus under phylogenetic analysis no longer match these new score characteristics. Therefore, the authors of this study re-assign most of the referred A. leptospondylus material to a new species in the Jabalisaurus genus (Jabalisaurus tethyensis).

The researchers conclude that there are at least two ichthyosaur genera present in these German deposits.

Introducing Jabalisaurus tethyensis

Jabalisaurus tethyensis was a medium-sized ophthalmosaurian ichthyosaur. Members of the genus are estimated to have reached between two and just over three metres in length. The German species probably reached around 2–2.9 metres long. It had a slender skull, large eyes and numerous finely ridged teeth. These adaptations indicate that it probably hunted relatively small prey. The species name tethyensis refers to its distribution along the northern shelf of the ancient Tethys Ocean.

The holotype is specimen SNSB-BSPG 1954 I 608. It represents a small, immature animal from the Altmühltal Formation of Bavaria. This specimen had previously been assigned to Aegirosaurus leptospondylus. However, the new analysis revealed important anatomical differences. Consequently, the researchers removed several fossils from Aegirosaurus and reassigned them to Jabalisaurus tethyensis.

A Familiar Fossil Gets a New Identity

One of the referred specimens is particularly significant. Specimen number JME-SOS-08369 is an articulated ichthyosaur measuring approximately 1.84 metres long. It comes from the Lower Tithonian deposits of Blumenberg, near Eichstätt in Bavaria. Furthermore, the specimen preserves an extraordinary soft-tissue outline.

Everything Dinosaur previously wrote about this fossil in 2022. At the time, researchers referred JME-SOS-08369 to Aegirosaurus sp. The earlier study examined the exceptional soft-tissue preservation associated with this specimen. It also investigated a separate ichthyosaur tail from the Solnhofen deposits.

Scientists identified a yellowish amorphous substance associated with the fossils. Their analyses suggested that this material represented adipocere. Adipocere can form from fatty tissues during decomposition. Therefore, the researchers proposed that these ichthyosaurs possessed a layer of insulating blubber.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s article about this research: Ichthyosaurs Had Blubber According to New Research.

JME-SOS-08369 has now provided scientists with further information. Its anatomy helped the researchers reassess the diversity of Late Jurassic German ichthyosaurs. The fossil also preserves a remarkably complete body outline. The researchers describe this exceptional preservation as essentially “mummified”.

Fossil material formerly assigned to Aegirosaurus leptospondylus is now assigned to Jabalisaurus tethyensis.

A line drawing of the preserved skull of Jabalisaurus tethyensis (specimen number JME-SOS-08369). Picture credit: Delsett et al with additional notation by Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Delsett et al with additional annotation by Everything Dinosaur.

What Did Jabalisaurus tethyensis Eat?

The new research also provides information about the animal’s ecology. Its slender jaws and teeth suggest Jabalisaurus tethyensis (pronounced Hah-bal-ee-sore-us teh-fie-en-sis), was probably a pursuit predator. It likely hunted small bony fishes in the tropical waters surrounding the Late Jurassic islands of southern Germany. At that time, this region consisted of shallow tropical seas dotted with islands, reefs and protected lagoons. Fine carbonate sediments accumulated in relatively quiet inter-reef basins.

These conditions created the exceptional fossil deposits for which southern Germany is famous today.

The Germany/Mexico Connection

The identification of Jabalisaurus in Germany has wider palaeobiogeographical implications. Until this study, the Jabalisaurus genus was known only from Mexico. Jabalisaurus meztli was described in 2021 from Late Jurassic deposits associated with the ancient Gulf of Mexico (Barrientos-Lara and Alvarado-Ortega).

Finding a closely related species in Germany substantially extends the known geographical range of the genus. Furthermore, this discovery challenges the idea that Late Jurassic ichthyosaurs from the proto-Caribbean were strongly endemic. Instead, similar ichthyosaurs may have inhabited warm waters extending across the Tethys and into the proto-Caribbean.

The researchers propose the existence of a distinctive Peri-Tethyan ichthyosaur fauna. This fauna differed from ichthyosaurs living in more temperate and polar waters. Therefore, climate rather than geographical isolation may have strongly influenced Late Jurassic ichthyosaur distribution.

Museum Fossils Continue to Reveal Secrets

The description of Jabalisaurus tethyensis also demonstrates the importance of re-examining museum specimens. Some fossils included in the study have been known for decades. Nevertheless, new comparisons and modern phylogenetic analyses have changed their interpretation. The discovery effectively doubles the recognised ichthyosaur generic diversity of the German Plattenkalk deposits.

Furthermore, JME-SOS-08369 has now contributed to two important areas of ichthyosaur research. First, its exceptional preservation provided evidence concerning ichthyosaur soft tissues. Now, its anatomy has helped scientists recognise a previously overlooked species. The fossil record does not always require new fossils to produce new discoveries. Sometimes, important discoveries are already sitting in museum collections waiting to be re-examined.

The scientific paper: “Late Jurassic ichthyosaurs from southern Germany” by Erin E. Maxwell, Jule Neumann and Giovanni Serafini published in Palaeontologia Electronica.

For models of ichthyosaurs and other prehistoric animals: Marine Reptiles and Other Prehistoric Animal Models.

16 08, 2026

A Unique Sivatherium Scale Drawing

By Mike|2026-08-16T06:20:46+01:00August 16th, 2026|Categories: Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Drawings|0 Comments

An exclusive Sivatherium giganteum scale drawing has been commissioned by Everything Dinosaur. The illustration of “Shiva’s Beast” is to be used in a Sivatherium fact sheet. The fact sheet is required as we expect the new CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale model of Sivatherium to arrive shortly. As soon as this prehistoric mammal model arrives, we will be contacting all those customers who have enquired about this beautiful giraffid.

The human figure in the illustration helps to provide scale. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the range of CollectA prehistoric animal models in stock: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Life Figures.

A Sivatherium giganteum Scale Drawing

Named and described in 1836 (Falconer and Cautley), Sivatherium giganteum is the largest species in this genus. Its fossils are known from the Sivalik Hills of India. Size estimates vary, but it is thought that it is one of the largest ruminants to have ever lived. An adult male could perhaps weigh as much as a modern giraffe. It stood around 2.2 metres at the shoulder and those impressive wing-like ossicones would have been approximately three metres off the ground.

The CollectA Deluxe Sivatherium giganteum model shown in anterior view.

It was once thought to a much heavier animal. In the 19th century scientists thought that it was about as heavy as an African elephant. However, a digital reconstruction and re-examination of the fossilised bones of these herbivores has led to a new body mass estimate of around 1,250 kilogrammes (a range of 857 kg to 1,812 kg).

To read our blog post from 2016 about this research: Shiva’s Beast Goes on a Diet.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“We are looking forward to the arrival of the new CollectA Deluxe Sivatherium figure. We will send out a fact sheet to customers who purchase this 1:20 scale model.”

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Scale Models of Prehistoric Animals.

15 08, 2026

A Fabulous Terminator Triceratops Drawing

By Mike|2026-08-13T06:12:28+01:00August 15th, 2026|Categories: Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Drawings|0 Comments

Our thanks to talented artist Caldey who sent into Everything Dinosaur a fabulous Terminator Triceratops drawing. The illustration combines two of her favourite subjects, science-fiction and the Dinosauria. The drawing demonstrates her remarkable illustration skills. Sometimes a dinosaur drawing captures the imagination in an unexpected way. The Terminator Triceratops certainly achieves this. The illustration combines palaeontology with a wonderfully inventive piece of science-fiction inspiration. At first glance, the animal resembles a monster from the “Terminator” movie franchise. However, a closer look reveals that this mechanical figure is based on a well-known dinosaur.

A dramatic Terminator Triceratops drawing. A combination of science-fiction and the Dinosauria. Incredible detail and a stunning backdrop to a fearsome beast. Picture credit: Caldey.

Picture credit: Caldey

A Terminator Triceratops Drawing

Elements from the film franchise have been cleverly incorporated into the ceratopsian. Consequently, the prehistoric animal takes on the appearance of a formidable cyborg. The concept immediately evokes the famous Terminator films.

Importantly, the artist has still retained the instantly recognisable characteristics of Triceratops. The large neck frill dominates the head. Furthermore, the three facial horns provide the perfect foundation for this imaginative transformation.

The idea works particularly well because Triceratops already looks imposing. Adding futuristic technology simply takes that formidable appearance to another level. Indeed, Caldey has created other science-fiction-meets-a-dinosaur pieces of art. For example, earlier this year Everything Dinosaur received a “Terminator Tyrannosaurus rex” drawing.

Our blog post about the mechanical T. rex: Blockbuster Movies Inspire Young Artist.

A Terminator/T. rex illustration by Caldey.

An idea for a new science-fiction dinosaur model. A hybrid of a Terminator unit and Tyrannosaurus rex. Picture credit: Caldey.

Picture credit: Caldey

We particularly admire the imagination behind these artworks. They demonstrate how dinosaurs continue to inspire creativity long after their extinction. Perhaps most importantly, drawings like the Terminator Triceratops show how palaeontology can encourage artistic expression. Science and imagination can work brilliantly together.

Our congratulations to Caldey, they are fabulous drawings.

14 08, 2026

Everything Dinosaur Evolution Interview Reveals the Dramatic Story Behind the Tyrannosaur Figure

By Mike|2026-08-14T09:03:24+01:00August 14th, 2026|Categories: Everything Dinosaur videos|0 Comments

The Everything Dinosaur Evolution interview with Extinct Fine Art explores the story behind our exciting model range. Everything Dinosaur’s Mike joined interviewer Karim Zanaty for an in-depth conversation. The discussion examines the origins of Everything Dinosaur and the development of the company’s Everything Dinosaur Evolution T. rex. In addition, Mike explains how science, art and manufacturing combine to create highly detailed prehistoric animal figures.

The Everything Dinosaur Evolution Interview

More than twenty years ago, Mike and Sue founded Everything Dinosaur. Their aim was to supply accurate prehistoric animal models while helping to educate and inspire. Since then, Everything Dinosaur has grown and evolved. However, a passion for palaeontology and scientifically accurate prehistoric animal models remains at the heart of the company.

Everything Dinosaur Evolution represents an important new chapter in this story. Karim Zanaty of Extinct Fine Art invited Mike to discuss the project and its development. The hour-long conversation provides a fascinating insight into the work behind the models.

Watch the Everything Dinosaur Evolution interview on YouTube:

Video credit: Karim Zanaty (Extinct Fine Art)

Creating the Everything Dinosaur Evolution Tyrannosaurus rex

The first Everything Dinosaur Evolution figure depicts Tyrannosaurus rex in 1:33 scale. However, creating the model involved much more than producing a sculpture of this famous theropod. For example, the project took three years to complete. Furthermore, Everything Dinosaur brought together a palaeontologist, a palaeo-reconstruction artist and other specialists. Each team member contributed their knowledge and expertise.

Fossil evidence played a fundamental role in the design process. Consequently, the team could make informed decisions about the appearance and proportions of the animal. We try to follow the fossil evidence when making dinosaur models.

Everything Dinosaur Evolution Teaser Trailer. A still from the short video highlighting the 1:33 scale T. rex model.

The image shows some of the 3D iterations of the 1:33 scale Everything Dinosaur Evolution T. rex figure. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the Everything Dinosaur Evolution 1:33 scale T. rex figure: Everything Dinosaur Evolution Figures.

The project demonstrates how palaeontology can influence the creation of a prehistoric animal figure.

Palaeontology, Palaeoart and Teamwork

During the interview, Mike discusses the creative process behind Everything Dinosaur Evolution. Producing a scientifically informed reconstruction requires collaboration. Therefore, specialists from several disciplines contributed to the project. The team examined the available fossil evidence. Renowned palaeo-reconstruction artist Bob Nicholls and award-winning digital designer Glen Southern helped translate this information into a three-dimensional reconstruction.

However, scientific accuracy under the supervision of Dr Dean Lomax was not the only consideration. The finished figure also had to work as a high-quality collectable. This combination of science, artistry and manufacturing expertise helped shape the final model.

The Everything Dinosaur Evolution interview with Karim Zanaty.

Mike and the 1:33 scale Everything Dinosaur Evolution T. rex being interviewed. Picture credit: Karim Zanaty (Extinct Fine Art).

Picture credit: Karim Zanaty (Extinct Fine Art)

Inspiring and Educating

Everything Dinosaur has always tried to combine enthusiasm for prehistoric life with education. In addition, Mike and Sue try to encourage artists. The Everything Dinosaur Blog plays an important role in this work. It provides information about new fossil discoveries, palaeontological research and prehistoric animals. Blog posts also highlight palaeoart and other creative efforts from dinosaur fans.

Similarly, accurate models can help communicate scientific ideas.

A carefully researched figure can encourage someone to investigate the animal it represents. Furthermore, models can stimulate conversations about anatomy, evolution and the fossil record. The Everything Dinosaur Evolution Tyrannosaurus rex builds upon these principles.

What Comes Next for Everything Dinosaur Evolution?

The interview also looks towards the future.

Mike and Karim discuss the inspiration behind the project and where Everything Dinosaur is heading. Moreover, the conversation explores the ambition behind the Evolution range. Creating the first figure represented a significant milestone. Nevertheless, it was only the beginning.

Praising the artwork displayed in the Extinct Fine Art gallery, Mike stated:

“Some amazing artwork was highlighted by Karim prior to my interview. Sue and I are proud to be part of such a creative community. Everything Dinosaur Evolution continues to develop as new prehistoric animal figures are researched and created. Our project brings together science, creativity and a passion for palaeontology. Above all, it reflects Everything Dinosaur’s commitment to producing remarkable prehistoric animal models for collectors.”

Watch the full Everything Dinosaur Evolution interview with Karim Zanaty of Extinct Fine Art on YouTube: Palaeontology and Palaeoart Connected – Video Interview.

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Museum Quality Prehistoric Animal Figures.

A New Genus of Troodontid Dinosaur from New Mexico
A New Genus of Troodontid Dinosaur from New Mexico

13 08, 2026

A New Genus of Troodontid Dinosaur from New Mexico

By Mike|2026-08-11T12:29:00+01:00August 13th, 2026|Categories: Palaeontological articles|0 Comments

Palaeontologists have named a new species of theropod dinosaur from New Mexico. The dinosaur, Dinevenator robustus, lived around 73 million years ago (Campanian faunal stage of the Late Cretaceous). Researchers identified the dinosaur from a fossil skull bone (a frontal) found in north-western New Mexico. It represents a new genus and species of troodontid.

Troodontids were lightly built, theropod dinosaurs closely related to birds. They also possessed relatively large brains compared to many other dinosaurs. The discovery of Dinevenator robustus provides new information about troodontid diversity in Late Cretaceous North America.

The research was undertaken by Dr Steven E. Jasinski and Dr Robert Sullivan. Their study was published in the scientific journal “Fossil Studies” earlier this month.

Dinevenator robustus life reconstruction. The newly described, large troodontid has caught a mammal. Whilst rare, the De-na-zin Member of the Kirtland Formation has recorded fragmentary remains of metatherian mammals. Picture credit: Sergey Krasovskiy.

Picture credit: Sergey Krasovskiy

A Large Troodontid Theropod Dinosaur

Although scientists have found very little fossil material, Dinevenator (pronounced Din-ee-ven-nay-tor), may have been surprisingly large for a troodontid. Comparisons with the skull bones of related dinosaurs suggest a body length of around 2.4 to 3 metres. Researchers estimate that it weighed approximately 68 to 136 kilograms. Therefore, Dinevenator robustus ranks amongst the larger troodontids currently known.

Palaeontologist Dr Steven Jaskinski, from the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science (NMMNHS) and corresponding author of the study commented:

“This really helps us get a clearer picture of the diversity in this family of dinosaurs during the Late Cretaceous in North America, and it adds to our knowledge of dinosaurs that once roamed New Mexico.”

The discovery of this new dinosaur helps clarify troodontid diversity during the Late Cretaceous. Furthermore, it increases our knowledge of New Mexico’s dinosaur biota.

Dinosaurs of the Kirtland Formation

Dinevenator robustus lived on a subtropical floodplain approximately 73 million years ago. It shared this environment with a remarkable variety of dinosaurs. For example, the crested lambeosaurine hadrosaur Parasaurolophus tubicen inhabited the same ecosystem. Armoured ankylosaurs and horned ceratopsians also roamed the region.

To read a recent blog post about the discovery of new lambeosaurine from Alberta, Canada: A New Lambeosaurine Hadrosaur from Alberta.

In addition, dome-headed pachycephalosaurs lived alongside agile dromaeosaurids. Huge tyrannosaurs represented some of the ecosystem’s largest predators. Consequently, the discovery adds another dinosaur to an already diverse Late Cretaceous fauna.

Left frontal of Dinevenator robustus shown in dorsal (left) and ventral view (right).

The left frontal of Dinevenator robustus (holotype) specimen number SMP VP-1955 shown in dorsal view (left) and ventral view (right). Picture credit: Sullivan (New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science).

Picture credit: Sullivan (New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science)

A Fossil Discovered in 2005

The fossil that eventually led to the new dinosaur’s identification was discovered more than twenty years ago. Dr Robert Sullivan found the specimen during the summer of 2005. He was collecting Cretaceous fossils in New Mexico’s San Juan Basin. The fossil came from the De-na-zin Member of the Kirtland Formation. Sullivan had discovered part of the skull of a relatively small theropod dinosaur. Initially, researchers thought the bone belonged to a dromaeosaur.

Dromaeosaurids include famous dinosaurs such as Velociraptor. However, subsequent research demonstrated that the specimen belonged to a troodontid.

Scientists have recently learned much more about North American troodontids. For instance, studies of Albertavenator from Alberta provided important comparative information. Research into Xenovenator from northern Mexico also helped scientists reassess the New Mexico fossil.

A phylogenetic analysis was conducted on a modified dataset, recovering Dinevenator robustus in a clade of robust troodontins (Troodontini) as the basal-most taxon and as the sister taxon to (Albertavenator curriei and Xenovenator espinosai). The recognition of a distinct, large, robust-skulled troodontid also increases the known diversity of theropod dinosaurs from the southern United States and provides further evidence for dinosaurs that are unique to the Kirtlandian faunas of New Mexico during the Late Cretaceous.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s blog post from 2017 about the discovery of Albertavenator: Albertavenator – Something to Get Your Teeth into.

Identifying Dinevenator robustus

Scientists have named this dinosaur from just one fossil skull bone (frontal). This bone forms part of the upper surface of the skull. Despite the limited material, the fossil preserves distinctive anatomical characteristics. Most notably, the frontal is thicker than equivalent bones in many related troodontids. Researchers also identified other features that distinguish the specimen.

These anatomical differences supported the establishment of a new genus and species. The fossil currently resides at the State Museum of Pennsylvania. However, plans are being made to transfer it to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

Understanding Troodontid Diversity

The discovery of D. robustus increases the known dinosaur diversity of New Mexico. More importantly, it provides another piece of the complex troodontid evolutionary puzzle.

Palaeontologists continue to reassess fragmentary fossils as new discoveries provide additional comparative material. As a result, specimens collected decades ago can reveal entirely new dinosaur species.

Dr Anthony Fiorillo, Executive Director of the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, highlighted this dynamic process stating:

“This new work illustrates the dynamic nature of dinosaur studies as we continue to test what we think we know. Furthermore, it demonstrates that New Mexico clearly has a prominent place in those global conversations.”

Everything Dinosaur acknowledges the assistance of a media release from the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science in the compilation of this article.

The scientific paper: “Dinevenator, a New Genus of Troodontid Dinosaur from the Late Cretaceous of New Mexico” by Steven E. Jasinski and Robert M. Sullivan published in Fossil Studies.

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Models of Troodontids and Other Dinosaurs.

Berlin Amphibian Populations Plummet by 76% in Alarming Study
Berlin Amphibian Populations Plummet by 76% in Alarming Study

12 08, 2026

Berlin Amphibian Populations Plummet by 76% in Alarming Study

By Mike|2026-08-10T15:42:57+01:00August 12th, 2026|Categories: Animal News Stories|0 Comments

A new study has revealed a dramatic decline in Berlin amphibian populations. Researchers report that frogs, toads and newts have declined by more than three-quarters since 1981. Furthermore, scientists found a substantial decline in the city’s dragonflies. Their populations have fallen by more than half since 1963. Much of Europe has been gripped by an unprecedented series of heatwaves this summer. Here in the UK, we too have endured record-breaking temperatures. Indeed, more parts of England were declared as being in a drought this week. Extremes of weather have an enormous impact on wildlife. For example, animals and plants that depend on small ponds and lakes to survive have been particularly hard hit.

More importantly, studies are revealing that many animals and plants are in long-term decline.

Common frogs (Rana temporaria) active in the office pond.

Several frogs (Rana temporaria) in the office pond. Six batches of frogspawn have been laid to date. At least two pairs are in amplexus, so perhaps more eggs will be laid over the next 24-hours or so. Unfortunately, many ponds have dried up, and amphibian populations are becomingly increasingly isolated. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Researchers from the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin led the study into the state of nature in Germany’s capital. For the first time, the team analysed decades of Berlin monitoring data using the internationally established Living Planet Index (LPI). The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) also uses this indicator to assess trends in wildlife populations around the world.

Berlin experts Falk Petzold and Klaus-Detlef Kühnel also participated in the research. They coordinate the long-term datasets used in the study. The researchers published their findings in the scientific journal “Global Change Biology Communications”.

Dragonflies and Amphibians Depend on Two Habitats

Dragonflies and amphibians share an important characteristic. Both groups depend on aquatic and terrestrial habitats during their lives. Their larvae or immature stages develop in water. However, adults also depend on terrestrial environments. Consequently, environmental changes affecting either habitat can threaten their populations.

The researchers examined two extensive datasets that had not previously been published. The Berlin dragonfly database contains almost 24,000 observations dating back to 1850. In addition, the Berlin amphibian dataset contains more than 16,000 records dating from 1970. Conservation organisations and local volunteers from specialist societies helped compile these valuable records.

The scientists focused on sixteen bodies of water. Researchers had surveyed these sites regularly and consistently over many decades.

The locations included forest lakes in Grunewald and bog pools in Köpenick. They also studied ponds in Marienfelde and Tegel.

Berlin Amphibian Populations Fall by 76%

The results reveal a disturbing picture. Between 1963 and 2023, Berlin’s dragonfly populations declined by an average of 51%. However, the researchers documented an even greater decline among amphibians. Berlin amphibian populations fell by 76% between 1981 and 2022.

Silvia Keinath, the study’s lead author and a scientist at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin, commented on the findings.

“Given the general trend of species decline, it is unfortunately no surprise that both groups are in decline. What is striking, however, is how much more severely amphibians are affected.”

Sadly, the analysis was unsurprising given the wider loss of biodiversity. However, the much greater decline among amphibians is extremely concerning.

Frogs, toads and newts have considerably less mobility than dragonflies. Therefore, changes to the landscape can isolate their populations. Roads and development can interrupt migration routes between breeding ponds and terrestrial habitats. Furthermore, small ponds may dry out and disappear.

Dragonflies have an advantage because they can fly considerable distances. As a result, they can colonise new bodies of water more easily. Nevertheless, environmental change also threatens dragonflies. For example, ponds may dry out before their larvae complete their development. Habitat loss is a serious threat to these insects.

New study highlights Berlin's declining damselfly and dragonfly population.

A Large Red Damselfly (Pyrrhosoma nymphula) at rest. New research highlights the decline in Berlin’s damselfly and dragonfly population. Picture credit: Jörg Freyhof, Museum für Naturkunde Berlin.

Picture credit: Jörg Freyhof, Museum für Naturkunde Berlin

Concerningly, no evidence of dragonflies emerging from our office pond have been found this year.

A beautiful dragonfly emerges from the office pond: A Spectacular Resting Dragonfly.

A New Way to Examine Urban Biodiversity

The scientists used the Living Planet Index to investigate long-term population trends. Essentially, the LPI combines changes in many individual populations into a single trend value. In this respect, it works rather like a stock market index.

Importantly, the index does not simply count the total number of animals. Instead, it measures the average change in populations over time. Therefore, scientists can examine long-term trends involving numerous species. This method also has another advantage. Researchers can use it when historical datasets contain gaps or were collected using different methods.

Consequently, the LPI provides scientists with a powerful tool for studying changes in urban biodiversity.

Berlin’s Drying Ponds Provide a Warning

The disappearance of small bodies of water could help explain the dramatic population declines. The researchers compared their findings with recent reports about Berlin’s small ponds and other water bodies. Alarmingly, they discovered that thirty-six previously studied sites have now completely dried out. Falling groundwater levels and reduced rainfall could have contributed to these losses. Moreover, these vanished water bodies could not contribute to the Living Planet Index calculations. Researchers no longer had continuous datasets for them. Therefore, the actual decline in Berlin’s amphibians and dragonflies could be even greater than the study indicates.

A similar pattern is being seen in the UK. Even the small office pond looked after by Everything Dinosaur team members is under threat. However, steps have been taken to conserve water. For example, a water butt has enabled the water in the small pond to be topped up.

Long-term Monitoring of a City’s Wildlife

The new research forms part of a growing effort to understand and conserve Berlin’s urban wildlife. In 2024, Museum für Naturkunde Berlin researchers calculated another sobering statistic. Around 16% of the species once native to Berlin have disappeared since 1700. The latest study provides a much more detailed view of this biodiversity crisis. Crucially, scientists can now examine how populations change over decades. They do not have to wait until a species disappears completely from the city.

The research demonstrates that scientists can measure meaningful population trends at the level of an individual city. However, this approach depends on continuous and well-documented long-term datasets. In addition, researchers must have access to those records. At present, Berlin lacks a structured and permanent biodiversity monitoring programme. Therefore, valuable long-term datasets remain relatively rare.

Commenting on the publication of this study, Mike from Everything Dinosaur stated:

“Hopefully, the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin will establish a comprehensive wildlife monitoring programme. However, the issue of declining wildlife populations is not confined to Berlin. Citizen science programmes can provide valuable data, and we all have a responsibility to do what we can to help conserve nature. Even our tiny pond can be a lifeline for so many animals.”

Everything Dinosaur acknowledges the assistance of a media release from the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin in the compilation of this article.

The scientific paper: “Long-Term Population Declines of Habitat-Shifting Species in the City: A Living Planet Index Approach for Berlin, Germany” by Silvia Keinath, Frederic Griesbaum, Nike Sommerwerk, Falk Petzold, Klaus-Detlef Kühnel and Jörg Freyhof published in Global Change Biology Communications.

11 08, 2026

Highlighting the Prehistoric Animal Dioramas of a Dedicated Model Collector

By Mike|2026-08-07T15:53:01+01:00August 11th, 2026|Categories: Dinosaur Fans|0 Comments

Our thanks to dinosaur fan and model collector Robert who sent into Everything Dinosaur images of his substantial prehistoric animal dioramas. We received two USB sticks, crammed full of photos of Robert’s tabletop prehistoric landscape. The sender commented that the USB drives contain nearly ten years’ worth of photographs. We will do our best to highlight this body of work, starting with some photographs of the CollectA Therizinosaurus model.

The CollectA Therizinosaurus model features in a diorama.

The CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Therizinosaurus model in the dinosaur diorama. Picture credit: Robert Townsend.

Picture credit: Robert Townsend

The model has been carefully positioned amongst the foliage. It is standing on a large, flat boulder as if it is surveying the prehistoric animal diorama.

The CollectA Therizinosaurus Model

The Age of Dinosaurs Therizinosaurus model was introduced in 2012. Two years later, CollectA added a 1:40 scale Therizinosaurus figure to their Deluxe range. Both figures have proved popular with collectors. Whilst a not to scale model, the CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Therizinosaurus seems an ideal candidate for Robert’s dinosaur dioramas.

Robert wrote to Everything Dinosaur stating:

“I would very much like my photographs of my modelling work to reach a wide audience. I don’t know how to use social media or put photographs up there, so I am really hoping that you can help me.”

CollectA Therizinosaurus model in a prehistoric animal diorama.

The Therizinosaurus model features in a large diorama highlighting Late Cretaceous Asian dinosaurs. Picture credit: Robert Townsend.

Picture credit: Robert Townsend

To view the extensive CollectA Age of Dinosaur models in stock: CollectA Age of Dinosaurs/Prehistoric Life Models.

The database of prehistoric animal photographs highlights the biota found on different continents. In addition, dioramas were set up to reflect different time periods. For example, there are photographs highlighting dinosaurs of the Jurassic as well as the Cretaceous.

Robert added: “I have also considered that other organisations might want to download or copy some of my pictures for educational purposes such as an online book or school education website.”

Everything Dinosaur is happy to assist with the wider circulation of these images.

Photographs of various dioramas have been featured on this blog previously. For instance, in 2020, we published images of Robert’s Cretaceous African diorama: A Cretaceous Africa Dinosaur Diorama.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur thanked the sender for the images and commented:

“We selected images of the CollectA Therizinosaurus model as it is one of our favourites. Sue and I greatly appreciate the care and attention to detail that has gone into creating these prehistoric animal dioramas.”

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Models of Therizinosaurus and Other Theropod Dinosaurs.