Our thanks to the extremely talented Caldey who sent into Everything Dinosaur her drawing of Nanotyrannus.  It is a beautiful Nanotyrannus illustration.  Caldey was inspired to create her dinosaur drawing by a recently published scientific paper.  The new study confirmed that Nanotyrannus was a valid genus.  A theropod dinosaur skull found in 1942 led to the erection of the Nanotyrannus genus in 1946 when this specimen was scientifically described (Gilmore).  However, scientists have debated whether the holotype and subsequent fossil discoveries represented a valid taxon or juvenile T. rex.

A detailed study of a remarkable fossil nicknamed the “Duelling Dinosaurs” has reaffirmed the validity of Nanotyrannus. The research, led by Lindsay Zanno of North Carolina State University demonstrates that this specimen represents a fully mature Nanotyrannus lancensis. Furthermore, a second Nanotyrannus species has been named – Nanotyrannus lethaeus.

To commemorate Nanotyrannus being declared a valid taxon following the recent publishing of a scientific paper, Caldey has produced a beautiful illustration of “dwarf tyrant”. Picture credit: Caldey.

Picture credit: Caldey

To read Everything Dinosaur’s recent article about the confirmation of Nanotyrannus as a valid genus: A New Chapter in Tyrannosaur Evolution.

A Colourful Nanotyrannus Illustration

Caldey has chosen to give her Nanotyrannus a striking appearance.  The darker tones of the body contrast strongly with patches of vibrant blue.  The snout, cranial crests, the posterior part of the skull have been coloured a vivid blue.  These colours highlight features of the head and would provide an element of motion dazzle if the dinosaur turned its head rapidly.  Caldey has given her dinosaur a coat of shaggy feathers.  However, not all of the body is covered, and these feathers do not extend over the tail.  Individual scales on this Nanotyrannus illustration have been carefully picked out.  The Nanotyrannus is standing in front of a ginkgo tree. All in all, it is a skilfully composed example of palaeoart.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Caldey’s Nanotyrannus illustration is a fitting tribute to this validated tyrannosaur taxon.  Whilst we expect the decision to erect two species to remain controversial, the recent study provided compelling evidence to indicate that Nanotyrannus is a separate taxon from Tyrannosaurus rex.  Indeed, the research paper concludes that Nanotyrannus was not closely related to the iconic tyrant lizard king.”

Our thanks to Caldey for sharing her wonderful Nanotyrannus drawing.