All about dinosaurs, fossils and prehistoric animals by Everything Dinosaur team members.
24 11, 2024

The Official Image of the New CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus Model

By |2024-11-22T14:47:35+00:00November 24th, 2024|CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur has received the official Gallimimus model image from CollectA.  A 1:40 scale replica of the largest ornithomimid dinosaur known to science is to be added to the CollectA Deluxe model range in 2025.  When we made the announcement of this exciting, new theropod figure we used the exclusive images that CollectA kindly sent us.  Now, we can show the official CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Gallimimus image.

The official CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model image.

The official CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model image. The model is shown in lateral view.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s earlier blog post announcing this new dinosaur model: New CollectA Prehistoric Animal Models for 2025 – Part 4.

The CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus Model

It has been a tradition for CollectA to announce their new figures on Fridays in November.  In November 2025, there are five Fridays.  So, we expect another CollectA model announcement next week too. To date, five new prehistoric animal figures for 2025 have been announced:

  • CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Popular Furcatoceratops.
  • CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale Jaekelopterus rhenaniae.
  • A CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale giant short-faced bear (Arctodus simus).
  • CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Ingentia prima.
  • CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Gallimimus (G. bullatus).

It is certainly an eclectic mix with three dinosaurs, an eurypterid and a prehistoric mammal having been announced.  The new Gallimimus model is the first theropod to be introduced this year.  However, Gallimimus was very probably omnivorous, so, perhaps we can expect another theropod next week but this time a carnivore.

To view the range of CollectA Deluxe models in stock at Everything Dinosaur: Scale Models of Dinosaurs.

CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model.

In this image, a more oblique view of the model the bones behind the rear leg can be more clearly seen.

Notes on the Model’s Base

The Gallimimus model will be on a base.  It would not be possible to create an accurate figure of this fast-running dinosaur without compromising on the model’s scientific accuracy.  The figure could have been put into a different pose, with perhaps one forelimb touching the ground, but given the size of the forelimbs, the figure would have had to be bent quite low to permit this.  Again, this would compromise scientific accuracy and depict the Gallimimus in an unlikely pose.

The base has some unusual features.  We think it features Gallimimus footprints and some articulated leg bones.  This reflects what has been found at one Gallimimus dig site in Mongolia.

To view the range of not-to-scale prehistoric animal models offered by CollectA: CollectA Prehistoric Life Figures.

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that the figure would be in stock next year (2025).

The spokesperson added:

“At this time, we are not sure when this figure will be available.  It could be released in the spring, or perhaps it is more likely this model would be available in the summer of 2025.”

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys.

23 11, 2024

Rare Fossil Bone Identified and a Decades-long Mystery is Solved

By |2024-11-23T10:51:43+00:00November 23rd, 2024|Palaeontological articles|0 Comments

Scientists have solved a five-decade-old mystery.  A strange bone found in 1974 has been identified as part of the pelvis from a Dimetrodon (D. teutonis).  In 1974, geologist Thomas Martens discovered a fossil bone whilst exploring the famous Bromacker fossil site in the Thuringian Forest near the village of Tambach-Dietharz (Germany).  This site consists of Permian-aged deposits that have yielded a treasure trove of fossils.  The Bromacker location is regarded as one of the world’s most important locations for fossils of Early Permian animals.  It is part of the UNESCO Geopark in the region, and the Lower Permian rocks have been extensively explored and mapped.

An aerial view of the famous Bromacker fossil site in Germany.

An aerial view of the famous Bromacker fossil site in Germany. Picture credit: Jakob Stubenrauch Team Drohne.

Picture credit: Jakob Stubenrauch Team Drohne

Fossil Mystery Solved at Bromacker Fossil Site

Prior to the fossil bone discovery, tracks of tetrapods had been found at the Bromacker site. However, fossil bones were rare.  It had been thought that preservation conditions had prevented body fossils from being formed.  However, the discovery of pelvic girdle bones demonstrated that this site could yield body fossils.  As part of the current research project, the bones were digitally analysed and reconstructed by researchers at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin.

The non-destructive CT scans and digital modelling enabled the scientists to produce three-dimensional models of the material.

Project manager Professor Jörg Fröbisch (Museum für Naturkunde Berlin) commented:

“I was particularly fascinated by the first bone find right from the start. With the help of modern and CT-based 3D methods, we were able to isolate the bone, visualise it from all sides and compare it with other finds. The scales fell from our eyes, and we immediately realised that it was the pelvis of a synapsid most likely that of Dimetrodon, a distant relative of us mammals.”

Dimetrodon model.

Wild Safari Prehistoric World Dimetrodon model.

The picture (above) shows a Dimetrodon model. The Dimetrodon taxon associated with the Bromacker fossil site is Dimetrodon teutonis.  The model shown is from the Wild Safari Prehistoric World series of figures.

To view this range on Everything Dinosaur’s website: Wild Safari Prehistoric World Models.

Dimetrodon teutonis

Dimetrodon teutonis was probably one of the top predators in the Bromacker palaeoenvironment. It was named and described in 2001 (Berman et al). The type specimen is MNG 10598, which consists of a set of vertebrae including elements from the distinctive sail of the Dimetrodon genus. The Bromacker fossil material represents the first record of Dimetrodon outside of North America. Dimetrodon teutonis was one of the smaller species of Dimetrodon. Scientists have estimated that it measured around a metre in length and weighed approximately twenty-five kilograms.

The species epithet is from the Latin “teutonis”. This translates as an individual of a German tribe. This is a reference to the geographic origins of the fossil material.  It remains the only species of Dimetrodon known from the Bromacker fossil site.  To date, only an isolated upper jaw, skeletal parts of a dorsal sail, a shoulder girdle and limb elements have been found at the Bromacker location. The discovery of the pelvic girdle of D. teutonis will help scientists to better understand the animal’s locomotion.

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

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys and Models.

22 11, 2024

New CollectA Prehistoric Animal Models for 2025 – Part 4

By |2024-11-21T23:04:50+00:00November 22nd, 2024|CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

Some exciting news! In collaboration with our friends at CollectA we make a fourth announcement about new CollectA prehistoric animal models for 2025. There is going to be a CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model! Dinosaur model fans have been lobbying for more ornithomimids and CollectA have listened.  Our thanks to CollectA for sending Everything Dinosaur some exclusive images.

  • CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Gallimimus (G. bullatus).

We expect this theropod figure to be in stock sometime in 2025, we are not sure when at the moment, but we will do our best to keep everyone informed.

The CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model.

The new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model shown in lateral view.

The CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus Model

We know that dinosaur fans and model collectors have considered ornithomimid models somewhat underrepresented.  It can be challenging to make replicas of these graceful theropods, with their long legs and small heads.  However, CollectA have listened to dinosaur fans, and they have produced an intriguing dinosaur figure.  The model is bird-like and those striking blue wings with their flashes of red would be ideal for visual displays.  Perhaps this is a male in his courtship colours.  There are bright red quills on the top of the head and a large, flashy wattle on the throat.  This is one eye-catching theropod!

CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model.

The striking colours of the Gallimimus figure. This is a very flamboyant dinosaur!

A view of the figure from the front provides the opportunity to see the paler throat and the lighter underside of the figure.  The CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model measures around fifteen centimetres long.  If an adult Gallimimus bullatus reached a body length of approximately six metres, then, a scale declaration of 1:40 would be quite accurate.

To view the range of CollectA Deluxe figures in stock at Everything Dinosaur: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models.

The CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus figure.

A graceful dinosaur figure with bird-like features. The new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus bullatus.

An Intriguing Base

The model is perched (very appropriately for a bird-like theropod), on a small display base.  As the feet are in proportion to the rest of the figure, a base was required to allow the figure to stand up.  This base is predominately a light brown colour.  The base could represent a muddy area close to a body of water.  Mudstone deposits are associated with the Nemegt Basin of Mongolia.

Intriguingly, if you look carefully, these images give a tantalising glimpse of a couple of extra details on the base.  For example, at the back of the base there is a raised, grey-coloured area. Many Gallimimus quarries have been raided by illegal fossil collectors.  These poachers damage fossils in their haste to extract as many bones as they can before the alarm is raised.

In one Gallimimus quarry palaeontologists discovered an isolated right foot. It probably had been part of a much more complete specimen, but the site was raided by poachers and most of the fossil material had been removed.  In addition, three-toed Gallimimus tracks were found.  These tracks were of different sizes.  This indicates that juveniles as well as adults left their prints.

The Gallimimus base could show these tracks and the fossil foot bone.  These images show a prototype model, it is not attached to the base but has been stuck to it with blu tack.  We expect the production figure to be firmly attached to the base.

Details of the Gallimimus base.

The model’s base shows some amazing details. There is a Gallimimus foot bone and Gallimimus tracks.

Thank You CollectA!

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Thank you CollectA!  It’s great to have a model of the largest ornithomimid known to science.  If the base includes tracks and a foot bone it demonstrates that CollectA have paid attention to the fossil record.  If the foot bone is present, then in a subtle way the manufacturer is raising awareness about the problem of poaching fossils.”

The new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model.

The new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus model. The model measures around 15 cm long, so based on a 6-metre-long adult Gallimimus, this figure is in approximately 1:40 scale.

To paraphrase a line from the 1993 movie “Jurassic Park” – Gallimimus is flocking your way – sometime next year.

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models and Toys.

21 11, 2024

Excellent Review for Everything Dinosaur

By |2024-11-24T10:12:58+00:00November 21st, 2024|Everything Dinosaur News and Updates|0 Comments

Another day, and another top Feefo review for Everything Dinosaur.  The company has received over three and a half thousand Feefo reviews along with thousands of reviews on the company’s own website.  Everything Dinosaur has hundreds of 5-star Google reviews too. A spokesperson for the UK-based mail order company stated that it was great to receive another 5-star customer review.

5-star customer review.

Another 5-star Feefo review for Everything Dinosaur. In this instance, the review was supplied by one of our many customers in Australia.  Picture credit: Feefo.

Picture credit: Feefo

To see the customer reviews on the Feefo website: Everything Dinosaur on Feefo.

The Importance of a 5-star Customer Review

Receiving numerous 5-star customer reviews can significantly enhance a mail order company’s reputation. Every positive review provides a powerful endorsement.  Reviews help to build trust with potential buyers.  When website visitors see a multitude of 5-star customer reviews, they feel more confident in their decision to shop.  Genuine customer reviews often lead to increased conversion rates and higher sales.

In this case, this review was from one of the many customers that Everything Dinosaur has in Australia.

The reviewer wrote:

“Multiple emails ensuring my order’s purchase and delivery. The package was well taken care of, and it was absolutely exhilarating opening the box.”

Mike from Everything Dinosaur thanked the reviewer for their kind words and added:

“We have said how grateful we are for the lovely review on the Feefo website.  It is always a pleasure to receive feedback from one of our many customers in Australia.”

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys.

20 11, 2024

Helpful Advice – Last Recommended Posting Dates for the Festive Season (2024)

By |2024-11-23T06:46:38+00:00November 20th, 2024|Everything Dinosaur News and Updates|0 Comments

At Everything Dinosaur, we are keen to help our customers.  The holiday season is nearly here, and we want to help you ensure your dinosaur gifts arrive on time for the festivities. If you want your prehistoric animal gifts to arrive in plenty of time, it is crucial to plan ahead.  Here are some essential tips for UK customers regarding last recommended posting dates.  In addition, we have provided a helpful table from Royal Mail.  It lists the last recommended posting dates from the UK to destinations overseas.

Royal Mail last recommended posting dates for Christmas 2024

We suggest that customers allow plenty of time for posting. Please order early so that we can pack and despatch items to give them plenty of time to reach their destination. This is particularly important for parcels being sent overseas. Table credit: Royal Mail.

Table credit: Royal Mail

The table (above) provides helpful information.  For example, the last recommended date for UK parcels sent out by second class is Wednesday December the 18th.  The last recommended posting date for a parcel to New Zealand is Tuesday 3rd of December.  It is time to get your skates on!

For additional information and advice, you are welcome to email us: Contact Everything Dinosaur.

Royal Mail Last Recommended Posting Dates

Please keep in mind that during the holiday rush, postal services can get extremely busy.  It is wise to place your orders as early as possible to avoid any last-minute stress.

Keep in mind that during the holiday rush, postal services can get busy. It’s wise to place your orders as early as possible to avoid any last-minute stress. Always check the last recommended posting dates for your chosen delivery method. For the holiday season, aim to send gifts at least a week in advance, especially for standard shipping, to accommodate any potential delays.

At Everything Dinosaur, we are working seven days a week to ensure parcels are despatched promptly.

For dinosaur toys and gifts: Dinosaur Toys and Gifts.

19 11, 2024

Unlock Your Potential: Transformative Digital Training for Small Businesses

By |2024-11-22T14:43:46+00:00November 19th, 2024|Everything Dinosaur News and Updates|0 Comments

Participating in a digital training programme tailored to the needs of small businesses has helped Everything Dinosaur learn more about the use of AI.  Team members have been working with Digital Cheshire and learning about some of the ways in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help small companies.  It’s not all one way.  For example, Sue agreed to be a speaker and panel member at a recent training seminar.  It’s one of the ways that we try to help other businesses.  In addition, we provided an article detailing the support to businesses provided by Digital Cheshire and their partners.  The article has been posted up on Digital Cheshire’s website.

Why Does Digital Training Matter?

It is important for small businesses to develop the appropriate skills.  For example, learning how digital marketing can help them expand and attract new customers.  Furthermore, social media can be used to connect with and inform both customers and potential customers.  It is also important to have an optimised and fully functioning website.  The Everything Dinosaur website is safe and secure.  Moreover, it has been optimised to support customers who access it via a mobile phone as well as other devices.

The Everything Dinosaur website (November 2024).

Having a fully optimised and secure website is exceptionally important. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Meeting and networking with other business owners also helps.  Delegates at the training courses can pick up tips and receive advice.  Participants can learn from each other’s experiences.  For example, Mike from Everything Dinosaur has been mentoring several local businesses as part of an initiative entitled “The Board That You Cannot Afford”.

How Have Businesses Changed Since the Training

Real, tangible developments have been delivered.  We have heard how the effective use of social media has helped small firms.  Updates to the websites have led to improvements in mobile responsiveness and an enhanced user experience.  In addition, more companies are feeling confident about using AI, and delegates have been able to expand their networks.

We try to encourage people to learn new skills.  To invest in themselves and their teams.  Developing new skills and embracing change is vital in competitive, ever-changing environments.

Hopefully, the advice that Sue and Mike have provided has helped.  Furthermore, Sue’s participation on an advisory panel and speaking at events has helped to encourage other would-be entrepreneurs.

The Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

18 11, 2024

Maxim the Baryonyx Model – A New Review

By |2024-11-21T14:09:06+00:00November 18th, 2024|PNSO Age of Dinosaurs Models|0 Comments

Our thanks to model collector and dinosaur fan William who sent into Everything Dinosaur a review of the recently introduced PNSO Maxim the Baryonyx model.  William explained that he was delighted to be able to acquire an accurate Baryonyx dinosaur model. In addition to reviewing the figure, he also provided a summary of how the first fossilised remains of this spinosaurid were discovered.

Maxim the Baryonyx

Wandering close to the water. An image of the new for 2024 Maxim the Baryonyx dinosaur model.

The Discovery of Baryonyx walkeri

According to the reviewer, it was a brisk January morning in 1983, when amateur fossil hunter William Walker visited one of his favourite fossil hunting sites.  He parked his trusty, green Vauxhall Chevette at the Smokejack Clay Pit and proceeded to hunt for fossils.  He was a plumber by profession but at heart he was a palaeontologist following the tradition of Victorian gentlefolk who documented the flora and fauna of the past.

A rugby-ball-sized nodule was spotted with a partial claw exposed on its surface along with the associated phalanx and a fragment of rib bone.  William broke the nodule apart with his rock hammer and the fossils were taken home and carefully cleaned and prepared.  He had found the claw of an unknown dinosaur.  Having discussed what he should do with his daughter Rita and her husband Trevor, it was decided to contact the London Natural History Museum.

Dr Angela Milner’s secretary was the first person at the museum to view the fossil discovery.  Dr Milner was contacted and once she had examined the specimen it was agreed that a field team led by palaeontologists Alan J. Charig and Angela C. Milner would be despatched to the site to search for more fossil remains.

London Natural History Museum Baryonyx exhibit

The mounted cast of the Baryonyx skeleton on display at the London Natural History Museum. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Named and Described in 1986

The field team worked for many weeks.  Eventually two tons of siltstone was taken from the site and the careful removal of the matrix to reveal the fossil material commenced. Ultimately, the research team recovered almost seventy percent of the skeleton.  It was the most complete dinosaur skeleton found in the UK.  Baryonyx walkeri was formally named and described in 1986 (Charig and Milner).

Media outlets nicknamed the new discovery “Claws” trying to add a splash movie monster magic to heighten interest.  Analysis of stomach contents revealed the remains of a fish and a juvenile iguanodontid’s rib bone.  An example of “surf and turf”.  Thirty-eight years later, PNSO have introduced an excellent replica of Baryonyx walkeri.

Three examples of the new PNSO Baryonyx model.

A trio of Baryonyx boxes. The new PNSO Maxim the Baryonyx models arrived on the day of the anniversary of the scientific publication announcing Baryonyx walkeri (published in the journal Nature). Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the range of PNSO prehistoric animal models in stock at Everything Dinosaur: PNSO Dinosaur Models.

The PNSO Maxim the Baryonyx Model Review

William began his review by commenting on the head sculpt.  He explained that the head of the figure was accurate with nostrils in the right position, a sagittal crest and that conspicuous kinked jaw.  The eye colouration and painting of the mouth were praised.  The scales on the body were highlighted and William commented upon the skin folds and the presence of a cloaca.

The proportions of the forearms and hindlimbs were praised and the only criticism offered concerned the size of the claw on the first digit.  William thought this claw should have been larger and more robust.  The colouration of the figure was described as light olive with a strong wash of pale orange over the neck, flanks and stomach.  The figure has black stripes breaking up the orange and olive colours.

William confirmed the scale as 1:35 and explained that the model measured over nine inches long and stood three and a half inches high.  The PNSO Maxim the Baryonyx figure is supplied with an acrylic support stand, colour booklet and a poster.

The reviewer went onto provide some information about Baryonyx walkeri.

Time Period: 139.8–112 million years ago.
Early Cretaceous, Weald Clay Formation of Surrey.
Location: United Kingdom (Surrey, England).

Year of discovery: 1983.

Classification: Theropoda.
Superfamily: Spinosauridae.
Family: Baryonychinae.
Type species: Baryonyx walkeri.

Weight: 1.2-2 tons.
Length: 25-33 foot.
Height: 8 foot.

The Palaeoenvironment

William described the environment in which Baryonyx lived as being similar to a Mediterranean climate.  There were marshes, mudflats and shallow lagoons.  A modern analogue could be the subtropical Camargue coastal region of southern France.  Other Baryonychinae are known such as Ceratosuchops inferodios and Riparovenator milnerae (named in honour of the late Dr Angela Milner).

To read more about the life and career of Dr Angela Milner: Paying Tribute to Dr Angela Milner.

The reviewer stated that other theropods were known from the Wealden Group such as the carcharodontosaurid Neovenator salerii.

William commented that ornithischian dinosaurs were also present referring to iguanodontids and the armoured dinosaur Polacanthus foxii.

In conclusion, he stated:

“The arrival of this brace of Baryonychinae concludes my grail quest of nearly a decade to own an accurate example and it was truly worth the years of patiently waiting for one to be released.”

In Praise of Everything Dinosaur

William reserved his final comments for Everything Dinosaur.  He thanked the company for bringing the Maxim the Baryonyx model into stock and he commented:

“Purchasing from Everything Dinosaur is fast, safe and secure.  There is no nonsense.  Customer service and care is of the highest level.”

Our thanks to William for sending his PNSO Baryonyx dinosaur model review.

Visit the award-winning website of Everything Dinosaur: Dinosaur Models.

17 11, 2024

Debunking Aquatic Dinosaur Myths: Doctor Darren Naish Reveals the Facts

By |2024-11-20T13:24:15+00:00November 17th, 2024|Dinosaur Fans|0 Comments

In a recent scholarly rebuttal, renowned palaeontologist Dr Darren Naish has challenged the controversial claims made by Brian J. Ford asserting that all non-avian dinosaurs were aquatic animals not suited to terrestrial environments.  These claims originally surfaced more than a decade ago.  However, they were given additional emphasis and pseudo credibility in a book originally published in 2018 and entitled “Too Big to Walk: The New Science of Dinosaurs”.  Essentially, the author asserts that dinosaurs were just too big to be able to live on land.

In addition, he proposes that bipedal theropods were unable to balance effectively as they moved due to excessive rotation on their vertical axis (yaw). Hence, dinosaurs such as Allosaurus, Giganotosaurus and Tyrannosaurus rex were aquatic.

Ford’s hypothesis suggests that dinosaurs adapted to a fully aquatic lifestyle.  He supports his argument with selective interpretations of fossil findings and highly contentious statements.

Brachiosaurs in water. Dr Darren Naish challenges a controversial hypothesis.

The remarkable artwork of Rudolph F. Zallinger which is featured in the book “Dinosaurs and Other Prehistoric Animals”. Such depictions are now outdated and there is overwhelming evidence to indicate sauropods were terrestrial animals.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The theory that dinosaurs were adapted to aquatic environments has been proposed before.  It was prevalent in the 19th and early 20th centuries and the contention that sauropods and the ornithischian hadrosaurs were aquatic animals remained popular up until the 1960s and 1970s.  Illustrations of giant sauropods such as Brachiosaurus wading around in swamps and lakes featured in many books about dinosaurs.  The artwork of Rudolph F. Zallinger (above) is a typical example.

Dr Darren Naish

Vertebrate palaeontologist and renowned author Dr Darren Naish challenges Ford’s assertions and sets out a critical response to the arguments put forward in “Too Big To Walk”.  His peer-reviewed rebuttal has been published in the journal “Historical Biology”. Dr Naish stresses the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, highlighting how the fossil record and other scientific disciplines provides a wealth of evidence supporting the terrestrial nature of most dinosaurs.

It is true, that many species of non-avian dinosaurs were capable waders and swimmers.  Indeed, some taxa such as the spinosaurids show adaptations for an aquatic life.  However, Ford asserts that all the non-bird dinosaurs lived in water.  A contention roundly discredited.

Birds, the only surviving members of the Dinosauria, exhibit a range of adaptations.  It is true, that many extant birds are very much at home in the water.  For example, penguins, but even these highly specialised birds must return to land to lay their eggs and raise the next generation.  Dr Naish provides an effective counterbalance to Ford’s spurious claims.  He argues that the assertions made are unfounded, lack substantial evidence and misinterpret existing data.

An aquatic dinosaur.

A lambeosaurine hadrosaur (Corythosaurus) depicted as an aquatic animal. The illustration by B. H. Robinson appears in a 1974 Ladybird leader book entitled “Dinosaurs”. Picture credit: B. H. Robinson.

Picture credit: B. H. Robinson

An Accomplished Author

Dr Naish is an accomplished author.  He has written extensively about Mesozoic fauna, with a number of notable works focusing on the Dinosauria.  In addition to his scientific papers and role as a consultant on films, television programmes and exhibitions he has published several extremely informative, popular science books.  For example, last year, a book documenting the evolutionary rise of the ancient sea reptiles and their domination of the Mesozoic Seas was published.

Everything Dinosaur team members were sent an inspection copy, and we subsequently wrote a review.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s review: Ancient Sea Reptiles by Dr Darren Naish.

The rebuttal provides an insightful counterpoint to the ideas proposed by Brian J. Ford.  The essay is not a detailed and forensic examination of Ford’s beliefs. However, it provides a comprehensive explanation as to why the narrative outlined by Ford is inaccurate. Furthermore, it highlights that palaeontology is dynamic, with the scientific community having altered its views on the Dinosauria based on new research. This contrasts with Ford’s own view of palaeontologists as being entrenched in dogma, unwilling to change with a “closed shop” mentality and hostile to outsiders.

Encouraging Debate and Reflection

It is important to note that debate is to be encouraged.  We at Everything Dinosaur acknowledge the need to recognise different viewpoints and perspectives.  However, we urge caution as new hypotheses are proposed, they should be open to continuous scrutiny and revision.  The contentions of Brian J. Ford do not stand up to scientific rigour and we welcome the measured and well-written response from Dr Naish.

As the debate continues, it serves as a reminder of the intricate history of life on Earth and the ongoing quest to understand it.  Furthermore, it serves as a warning to us in our fast-moving world of social media.  Unfounded theories and “alternative facts” can find an audience and take on an air of credibility. Ultimately, it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure a fair debate, and different perspectives are perfectly permissible.  However, the theories proposed by Brian J. Ford have been discredited and we must guard against “populist” ideas gaining traction and damaging the scientific community and the wider public’s perception of palaeontology.

Read the peer-reviewed rebuttal of the all non-avian dinosaurs were aquatic proposition: The Response to and Rejection of Brian Ford’s “Too Big to Walk”.

Darren Naish (08 Nov 2024): The response to and rejection of Brian Ford’s Too Big to Walk, a 21st century effort to reinstate the aquatic dinosaur hypothesis, Historical Biology, DOI: 10.1080/08912963.2024.2421268

16 11, 2024

The Beautiful PNSO Yangchuanosaurus Dinosaur Model

By |2024-11-17T20:23:43+00:00November 16th, 2024|PNSO Age of Dinosaurs Models|0 Comments

Team members enjoy taking photographs of dinosaur models.  Photographs of prehistoric animal figures are helpful to customers.  In addition, we can highlight details on the figures and discuss the accessories that are often included in the packaging.  For example, we were able to take some photographs of the recently introduced PNSO Yangchuanosaurus dinosaur model (Dayong). Dayong is a replica of Y. shangyouensis.  This dinosaur taxon was named and described in 1978.  The PNSO figure was introduced in the autumn of 2023.

PNSO Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis model.

The PNSO Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis figure photographed in lateral view. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

This fantastic model of a Yangchuanosaurus by PNSO comes complete with an A3 Sci-Art poster.  Furthermore, a sixty-four-page, full-colour booklet is included.

To view the range PNSO models in stock at Everything Dinosaur: PNSO Dinosaur Models and Figures.

The PNSO Yangchuanosaurus Dinosaur Model

The PNSO figure is a replica of a metriacanthosaurid theropod.  Its fossils come from south-western China (Chongqing Province). PNSO introduced two Yangchuanosaurus figures. Firstly, Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis and secondly Dapeng, a replica of Yangchuanosaurus magnus.

The discovery of a much larger theropod skeleton led to the erection of a second species in the Yangchuanosaurus genus. However, it is now thought by most palaeontologists that Yangchuanosaurus magus should have nomen dubium status. That is, that this species is not valid, and the skeletal remains represent an older and much larger specimen of Y. shangyouensis. PNSO did introduce a replica of Y. magus at the same time as Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis.

To read a customer’s review of the PNSO Dapeng the Yangchuanosaurus magus model: PNSO Dapeng the Yangchuanosaurus Reviewed.

PNSO Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis model.

This beautiful figure from PNSO has an articulated lower jaw. This theropod has a large gape and our congratulations to the painting team, the figure is superb. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Both the PNSO Yangchuanosaurus models (Dayong and Dapeng) have articulated lower jaws.

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“It is a beautiful dinosaur model.  It is great to see a Chinese manufacturer introducing replicas of Chinese prehistoric animals.”

The Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models and Figures.

15 11, 2024

New CollectA Prehistoric Animal Models for 2025 – Part 3

By |2024-11-14T16:51:46+00:00November 15th, 2024|CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

Today, in collaboration with our chums at CollectA we make a third announcement about new CollectA prehistoric animal models for 2025.  CollectA will introduce a replica of one of the first, really big dinosaurs to evolve. In 2025, CollectA will add a 1:40 scale Ingentia prima model to their Deluxe range of prehistoric animal figures.  The manufacturer has kindly sent us some exclusive images of this new herbivorous dinosaur figure.  We can share some of these images with you.

  • CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Ingentia prima.
The Ingentia prima model from CollectA.

The model is believed to measure a little over 25 cm in length making it approximately 1:40 scale.

Ingentia prima

With an estimated length of around ten metres and weighing a colossal ten tonnes Ingentia was one of the very first super-sized dinosaurs. Named and described in 2018 (Apaldetti et al), the fossil material reflects several adaptations to weight bearing and evolving enormous size. It did not have the pillar-like legs of later sauropods, the front limbs were bent and show greater flexibility than the limbs of later giants such as the diplodocids and brachiosaurs. The hand and foot (manus and pes) are not as derived.  There are individual toes and claws.  However, Ingentia remains one of the largest, if not the largest terrestrial animal known from the Triassic.

Its fossils come from the Quebrada del Barro Formation of north-western Argentina. It lived around 210 million years ago.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s article from 2018 announcing the formal scientific description of this dinosaur: Triassic Dinosaurs Just Got Bigger.

CollectA Ingentia prima dinosaur model.

The new for 2025 CollectA Ingentia prima dinosaur model.

The CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima Model

At this stage, we are not sure when this figure will be in stock. However, we will do our best to keep dinosaur model fans informed through our blog and other social media platforms.  We can confirm that the figure will measure a fraction over twenty-five centimetres in length.  So, the 1:40 scale declaration based on a ten-metre-long animal is quite accurate.  The figure is predominately light green with brown patterning.  The underside is a lighter, off-white colour.  The animal is posed as if it is slowly walking along.  This provides the design team with an opportunity to highlight those bent front limbs.

View the range of CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models in stock at Everything Dinosaur: CollectA Deluxe Figures.

It is certainly a most intriguing figure.  Perhaps, CollectA will make a revised Plateosaurus figure, replacing their existing model that was first introduced more than a decade ago.

The new for 2025 CollectA Ingentia prima model in 1:40 scale.

The new for 2025 sauropodomorph figure Ingentia prima from CollectA. The figure is shown in a partial posterior view.

These images reveal lots of detail on the skin of the Ingentia figure.  There are scales of various sizes. Large osteoderms seem to be present on the back, the flanks and running down the tail. The skin folds and position of the tail convey movement in the CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima model.

CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima model.

The striking colouration of the new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima figure.

Using the Binomial Name

CollectA seem to be introducing numerous figures that include the binomial name in their title.  For example, this model is referred to as Ingentia prima.  As far as we know there is just one species ascribed to this genus.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“When the Arctodus simus figure was announced last week, we noted comments on our Facebook post asking CollectA to introduce a sauropod figure next year.  Whilst Ingentia prima has been described as a basal sauropod, its exact phylogeny has yet to be resolved.  It is closely related to Lessemsaurus. Along with Antetonitrus (A. ingenipes), these dinosaurs have been classified into a new family of sauropodiform dinosaurs – the Lessemsauridae.”

The spokesperson added that he was looking forward to the CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima model coming into stock in 2025.

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys.

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