Dinosaur Fans - Part 8

Dinosaur and prehistoric animal themed articles, features and stories.

28 05, 2024

Pterosaur Bone and Amazing Adaptations for Powered Flight

By Mike|2024-06-16T12:39:17+01:00May 28th, 2024|Categories: Dinosaur Fans, Main Page, Photos/Pictures of Fossils|0 Comments

Pterosaur bone fossils show some remarkable adaptations for powered flight. The bones were light, air-filled and often they had extremely thin walls. The Pterosauria comprises the first vertebrates to have evolved powered flight. The wings of pterosaurs were formed by a membrane of skin and tissue that stretched from the ankles to an enormous fourth digit on the hand. Their evolutionary origins remain unclear. Some palaeontologists postulate that the first flying pterosaurs evolved during the Middle Triassic.

To read an article about the possible ancestry of the Pterosauria: Unravelling the Ancestry of the Pterosaurs.

The shape of the pterosaur wing and evidence of wing membranes. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The image (above) shows the shape and the anatomy of the pterosaur wing. This is a photograph of an exhibit on display at the Manchester Museum of Natural History. We suspect that this is a cast. The pterosaur genus represented by this exhibit is probably Rhamphorhynchus. The thin and delicate wing bones can be clearly observed.

Wild Safari Dinos Rhamphorhynchus figure.

The picture (above) shows a Rhamphorhynchus pterosaur model. It is a long-tailed flying reptile. The figure is from the Wild Safari Prehistoric World model range.

To view the Wild Safari Prehistoric World range: Safari Ltd Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Models.

Pterosaur Bone Structure

Pterosaur bones were lightweight but strong. Their skeletons show a number of adaptations for powered flight. For example, they possessed large, keeled breastbones that anchored powerful flight muscles. The bones were hollow and air-filled similar to those of birds. The bone walls were extremely thin.

A close-up view of the thin-walled and hollow pterosaur bone model on display at the Frankfurt Museum of Natural History. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The picture (above) shows the internal structure of a pterosaur bone. It is probably a cast. The bone contains struts that help to strengthen it, but most of the internal space would have been filled with air. The walls of the bone are extremely thin. The large notch on the underside would have been for muscle attachment. Pterosaur bones provide a proportionately higher muscle attachment surface area compared to most other reptiles.

An enormous Quetzalcoatlus fossil cast on display. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

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

27 05, 2024

The Remarkable Beauty of Ammonite Models

By Mike|2024-06-13T18:48:53+01:00May 27th, 2024|Categories: Bullyland Prehistoric Animal Figures, CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Popular and CollectA Prehistoric Life Models, Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products|0 Comments

Ammonite models provide fossil hunters with an opportunity to illustrate their ammonite fossil collections with a replica of the actual animal. There have been several ammonite figures introduced in recent years. They have certainly captured the imagination of fossil enthusiasts and model collectors. Professional palaeontologists have found them useful too. At Everything Dinosaur, we also supply ammonite models to schools, universities, museums and to people involved in science communication.

The Bullyland ammonite model next to a polished section of an ammonite fossil.

The Bullyland ammonite model is often used in museum displays to depict the living animal next to fossil material. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The picture (above) shows an ammonite model next to a polished ammonite fossil. The ammonite replica is from the Bullyland range of prehistoric animal figures. It was one of the first replicas of an ammonite to be made by a mainstream model manufacturer.

To view the Bullyland range: Bullyland Prehistoric Animal Models and Figures.

Describing Ammonite Models

Ammonite models are detailed replicas that provide an example of a typical ammonite. There are hundreds of ammonite genera. It would not be possible to create a figure to represent every single species. However, the replicas that do exist provide a helpful and informative representation of these extinct cephalopods. The models are meticulously designed to replicate the intricate details of the original fossils.

Most ammonite genera had planispiral shells. However, throughout the course of their long evolutionary history these remarkable cephalopods evolved a huge variety of shell forms.

The CollectA Age of Dinosaurs range contains a replica of an ammonite with a planispiral shell. The genus is Pleuroceras. In addition, CollectA have included an example of a heteromorphic ammonite in their model range. The genus is Pravitoceras.

CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Popular Size Pleuroceras ammonite model.

The CollectA Pravitoceras figure is extremely detailed, and it depicts an ammonite with an irregularly coiled shell.

The colourful heteromorph ammonoid model – CollectA Pravitoceras.

To view the CollectA Age of Dinosaurs model series: CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Models.

The Significance of Ammonite Replicas

Ammonite figures have gained popularity amongst fossil collectors. The models are placed next to fossils to provide a visual clue to what these marine creatures actually looked like. Ammonite models are used in museum exhibits too. These figures provide a tangible representation of an extinct animal. Furthermore, these figures can be used to help with scientific communication and outreach work. Their robust form enables them to stand up to lots of handling from inquisitive children. These replicas often evoke a sense of awe and wonder.

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that the company supplied a large number of these figures.

The spokesperson added|:

“Ammonite models provide an affordable way to demonstrate what these long extinct creatures looked like. The vast majority of fossils we have represent just the shell. The creature lived in the last segment of the shell and the models help to bring ammonites back to life.”

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

26 05, 2024

Comparing Brands Prehistoric Animal Models – Some Helpful Advice (Part 2)

By Mike|2024-06-09T10:07:54+01:00May 26th, 2024|Categories: Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products|0 Comments

Earlier this month, we looked at prehistoric animal model brands that are generally classified as toys. We looked at the merits of brands such as Schleich, Wild Safari Prehistoric World and Mojo Fun. In the second and concluding part of this short series, Everything Dinosaur examines some of the options available for collectors of prehistoric animal figures. The fans of prehistoric animals that are looking for museum-quality replicas. Let’s take a look at prehistoric animal models that are likely to appeal to collectors.

To read the first blog post in this series, looking at prehistoric animal toys: Comparing Prehistoric Animal Model Brands (Part 1) – Toys.

There are no hard and fast rules as to which brands of prehistoric animal models are regarded as toys and which ones are collectables. For example, the Natural History Museum range of figures are highly collectable but have great play value too.

The rare Megalosaurus along with the Natural History Museum Baryonyx and Triceratops figures. These figures, part of the Natural History Museum range, are now all retired and out of production. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Rebor Replicas and Figures

Rebor produces an excellent range of highly detailed, hand-painted, and often articulated prehistoric animal models. Their extensive range includes dinosaurs, prehistoric mammals and extant creatures. Rebor figures include both scale and not-to-scale models. The company strives to produce accurate, museum-quality models as well as more unusual replicas such as the Titanoboa maquette.

The assembled Rebor Titanoboa Museum Class Maquette Brian Diccus prehistoric animal model. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the Rebor range: Rebor Models and Figures.

Haolonggood Prehistoric Animal Models

The Haolonggood range of prehistoric animal figures is a recent addition to Everything Dinosaur’s portfolio. This Chinese company has ambitions. They intend to introduce more than a dozen new models in 2024. The majority of the figures are dinosaurs, although the company has introduced an extremely good replica of Otodus megalodon. Most of the dinosaur figures are in 1:35 scale and two colour variants are normally offered per genus.

This range is popular amongst dinosaur model collectors.

New for 2024 Haolonggood dinosaur models. Tlatolophus galorum and the horned dinosaurs Sinoceratops and Kosmoceratops. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the Haolonggood range: Haolonggood Dinosaurs.

Beasts of the Mesozoic

The Beasts of the Mesozoic range has a great reputation for the quality of design. This is a range of articulated prehistoric animal figures. The first series to be introduced were the “raptors”. This was a range of mostly dromaeosaurids. A ceratopsian series followed and recently a selection of tyrannosaur figures has been launched. The figures are colourful, with some of the models having more unusual colour schemes such as blue or purple. They are aimed at adult collectors. This range has an age restriction as the models are for display and not for robust play.

There are plans to add prehistoric mammals and some fantasy figures to the portfolio.

To view the range of Beasts of the Mesozoic models in stock: Beasts of the Mesozoic Action Figures.

Unpacking Beasts of the Mesozoic models.

The latest Beasts of the Mesozoic delivery consisted of tyrannosaurs, ceratopsians and raptors. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Collecting Prehistoric Animal Figures Influenced by Dinosaur Films

Dinosaur movies such as “King Kong” and the “Jurassic Park/Jurassic World” franchises have influenced model making. Lots of manufacturers offer prehistoric animal collectables that reflect prehistoric animals from the big screen. For instance, ITOY Studio offers a small range of figures influenced by films such as “Jurassic Park”.

ITOY Studio Dilophosaurus dinosaur model with articulated jaw.

The ITOY Studio Dilophosaurus dinosaur model has an articulated jaw. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the ITOY Studio range: ITOY Studio Dinosaurs.

In addition, many collectors enjoy collecting the Nanmu Studio models. These models are quite large and beautifully painted. Many of the Nanmu Studio figures include bases which makes them ideal for display.

The Nanmu Studio Mosasaurus models. The “Leviathan” (left) and the “Pit Lord” figure (right). Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

PNSO Prehistoric Animal Models

PNSO have a good reputation for producing scientifically accurate prehistoric animal models. The company offers 1:35 scale sci-art models as well as a wide range of mid-size models. The range has grown and Everything Dinosaur has been involved with this manufacturer for more than a decade. PNSO models are extremely popular amongst collectors.

The PNSO range: PNSO Dinosaurs.

The recently introduced PNSO Tristan the Gorgosaurus dinosaur model in lateral view. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur praised Eofauna Scientific Research for their range of scale prehistoric animal figures. In addition, the spokesperson mentioned the small, yet detailed and highly collectable Wild Past replicas.

The front of the Wild Past Tethyshadros box. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Collectable Prehistoric Animal Figures

In summary, discerning collectors have a wide variety of prehistoric animal brands to choose from. If you are a fan of dinosaur movies, then ITOY Studio or Nanmu Studio are worth considering. However, if you want scientific accuracy then Haolonggood or PNSO might appeal. If you are looking for more than iconic dinosaurs such as Tyrannosaurus rex, then Rebor, with its more unusual figures is highly recommended.

Whether you are a budding palaeontologist or an avid model enthusiast, the wide-ranging prehistoric animal model collection at Everything Dinosaur has something to captivate any collector.

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

21 05, 2024

Comparing Prehistoric Animal Model Brands – Some Helpful Advice (Part 1)

By Mike|2024-06-05T09:22:58+01:00May 21st, 2024|Categories: Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur is regarded by many as the “go to” company for dinosaur and prehistoric animal model figures. We have been supplying prehistoric animal figures to a global customer base for nearly two decades. With so much experience and knowledge of a wide variety of dinosaur model toys and collectables we are quite well placed to provide advice on different prehistoric animal model brands.

The range of figures can be split into two broad and sometimes overlapping categories. There are the collectables which are often limited editions, then there are those models that can be classified as toys. However, dinosaur toys can be highly collectable.

In the first of this two-part series, we will focus on those brands that are generally classified as toys. A second article will look at the collectables market in more detail.

There are lots of prehistoric animal and dinosaur toys. New figures are introduced every few weeks. These models are from the Mojo Fun range of prehistoric animal figures. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Prehistoric Animal Model Brands – Toys

There are a huge number of generic toy lines. Some are better quality than others. For example, Mattel has a good reputation of its “Jurassic World” toys. If you are looking for something more accurate than the Wild Safari Prehistoric World range is worth considering. These models are made by the US-company Safari Ltd. They offer a substantial range of products featuring both popular and some of the more obscure prehistoric animal species. This range balances scientific accuracy with affordability and durability. These figures tend to be durable enough for children to enjoy whilst also appealing to collectors.

Utahraptor dinosaur model (Wild Safari Prehistoric World).

The Wild Safari Prehistoric World Utahraptor model spotted at a trade show. The colourful Kentrosaurus figure can be seen to the left of the Utahraptor. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Safari Ltd Wild Safari Prehistoric World figures: Wild Safari Prehistoric World Figures.

One of the most popular brands in the prehistoric animal model environment is Papo. Based in France, Papo have been making prehistoric animal figures for many years. They have their own unique style. Some models are more scientifically accurate than others. The figures have intricate skin textures, impressive paint jobs and they are great for creative, imaginative play. Papo models are also popular with collectors and have something of a cult following.

The new for 2023 Papo Kronosaurus figure has an articulated jaw. Papo figures tend to be very popular. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The range of Papo prehistoric animals: Papo Prehistoric Animal Models.

CollectA Prehistoric Animal Figures

If you are looking to collect a lot of models, then CollectA might be the company for you. This company has developed a strong reputation for their attention to detail and scientific accuracy. They also offer an extensive range of impressive figures. There are dinosaurs, including obscure ones, plus ammonites and other invertebrates as well as marine reptiles, pterosaurs and prehistoric mammals.

CollectA produces two model ranges. There is a range of scale prehistoric animal models as well as a range of not to scale figures.

CollectA Deluxe scale models: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Replicas.

The range of generally smaller CollectA figures (not to scale models): CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Popular Range.

The Mojo Fun range of prehistoric animal models is becoming increasingly popular. For example, this company was praised for their recently introduced Woolly Rhino model.

Everything Dinosaur and the Mojo Fun Woolly Rhino model.

Proudly holding the new for 2023 Mojo Fun Woolly Rhino figure. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Mojo Fun prehistoric and extinct figures: Mojo Fun Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Animals.

Model Manufacturers in Germany

There are German model manufacturers too. Bullyland offers a small range of figures. This range includes Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops and Velociraptor. These models are great for robust, creative play. One of the best-known of all model manufacturers is Schleich. Schleich is a Germany company that has been producing toy figurines for nearly a century. This range is focused on the toy market, but some models still appeal to the serious collector. Popular dinosaurs are featured such as T. rex and Stegosaurus. However, other more unusual dinosaurs are included such as the bizarre sauropod Bajadasaurus.

Schleich models tend to be reasonably priced. This makes them more affordable when compared to more accurate, museum quality figures. One differentiating factor of the Schleich brand is its focus on play value. Many of their prehistoric animal models are designed to be durable enough for children’s imaginative play. Several figures have articulated joints as well as articulated jaws. An example of good quality design is the Schleich Quetzalcoatlus figure. It uses special hinges and joints that permit the wings to be folded out and also folded up. This was the first pterosaur figure from a mainstream manufacturer to feature this innovation.

The new for 2023 Schleich Quetzalcoatlus pterosaur model. This cleverly designed figure has articulated wings so that they can be folded permitting the flying reptile to be posed in a resting position. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Schleich prehistoric animal models: Schleich Dinosaurs and Other Prehistoric Animals.

Everything Dinosaur is Happy to Help

In summary, there are a great many models and figures to choose from. The right choice for you will depend on what your needs are. Schleich, Papo and Mojo Fun replicas are great for imaginative play. Whereas CollectA and Safari Ltd models tend to be more scientifically accurate. Select the brand that best fits your own needs.

With so many impressive ranges on the market, it is easy to find a high-quality prehistoric animal model. However, our knowledgeable team members are on hand to provide assistance if required.

Email Everything Dinosaur team members: Contact Everything Dinosaur.

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

16 05, 2024

Amazing Ichthyotitan Jawbones Go on Display and Hollywood Comes to Bristol

By Mike|2024-05-16T22:18:01+01:00May 16th, 2024|Categories: Dinosaur Fans, Main Page, Movie Reviews and Movie News|0 Comments

The recently described Ichthyotitan jawbones are going on display and Everything Dinosaur sponsors a film all about dinosaurs. Everything Dinosaur is proud to announce that they will be sponsoring the internationally acclaimed documentary “WHY DINOSAURS?” when it comes to the UK. Four special screenings have been announced – London, Sheffield, Bristol and the Lyme Regis fossil festival.

The special screenings will take place next month (June 2024), and the Bristol event has been scheduled to coincide with the giant jawbones of Ichthyotitan going on display.

Four special screenings of the award-winning documentary “WHY DINOSAURS?” in the UK. Everything Dinosaur is one of the sponsors of “WHY DINOSAURS?”.

Ichthyotitan Jawbones

The Bristol screening will take place on the evening of Wednesday June 5th. It will be hosted by The Bristol Aquarium. The fossilised remains of the giant marine reptile Ichthyotitan will be on display at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, to coincide with this exciting event.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s blog post about Ichthyotitan: Ichthyotitan a Huge Triassic Marine Reptile.

Dr Dean Lomax, the lead author of the scientific paper was busy this week helping to install the Ichthyotitan jawbones in their new home.

The Ichthyotitan jawbones going into their display case. A curious Megaloceros looks on as the team installs the fossil bones. Picture credit: University of Bristol.

Fragmentary bones representing part of the jaw of an enormous ichthyosaur were found along the Somerset coastline. The first discovery was made by Paul de la Salle in 2016. Father and daughter Justin and Ruby Reynolds discovered more material in 2020. The bones are from a Late Triassic ichthyosaur estimated to have been about the size of an extant Blue Whale!

Commenting on the film and fossil display, Dr Dean Lomax stated:

“As an 1851 research fellow here at the University of Bristol, I wanted to bring the film to the city and give people an opportunity to walk the red carpet and watch this exciting dinosaur movie. Moreover, I’m very excited to say that the bones of the recently announced Ichthyotitan, the giant ichthyosaur co-discovered by then-11-year-old Ruby Reynolds and announced last month [in April], will also be on display at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, to coincide with the screening of “WHY DINOSAURS?”.

Dr Dean Lomax, Ruby Reynolds, Deborah Hutchinson, Carol Skiggs, Justin Reynolds and Paul de la Salle inspect the new Ichthyotitan exhibit. Picture credit: University of Bristol.

The website of Dr Dean Lomax: British Palaeontologist Dr Dean Lomax.

“WHY DINOSAURS?”

The Bristol screening of “WHY DINOSAURS?” will take place on the evening of Wednesday June 5th.

This award-winning documentary follows dino-obsessed teenager James Pinto and his father on a global search to try to understand why people are fascinated with the Dinosauria. In their quest they interviewed more than sixty-five experts from various fields related to dinosaurs, including leading scientists and artists among Jurassic Park fans.

The documentary explores themes from museum displays to blockbuster films. It attempts to discover what fascinates us about these prehistoric creatures. James Pinto, who narrates the film, explained:

“This movie explores the myriad ways in which people connect with dinosaurs, providing a unique look into the lives and careers of those who study them.”

As one of the world’s leading suppliers of dinosaur and prehistoric animal models, it was only fitting that Everything Dinosaur should become involved with this amazing project.

Dinosaur fans lucky enough to attend the Bristol screening will have a rare opportunity to meet and interact with palaeontology experts. Kallie Moore, the co-host of PBS Eons, Jessica Lippincott of the Wyoming Dinosaurium Project, and acclaimed palaeontologist, author and presenter Dr Dean Lomax, who is also a scientist at the University of Bristol will be in attendance. Dr Lomax is interviewed in the documentary and is also an Executive Producer.

Details of the 4 "Why Dinosaurs?" screenings.

Details of the four “WHY DINOSAURS?” screenings.

Sue and Mike from Everything Dinosaur will be attending the Sheffield screening on June 1st.

Tickets for Dinosaur Fans

The event at the Bristol Aquarium will commence at 6pm with a red-carpet reception with the film documentary starting around 7.15pm. The evening will conclude with an engaging question and answer session giving the audience an opportunity to delve deeper into the making of the documentary and the scientific wonders it explores.

Producer, editor and filmmaker Tony Pinto was excited to be bringing this amazing project to the UK. He went onto state:

“It isn’t the traditional computer-generated dinosaur reconstructions and celebrity-narrated prehistoric documentary. Instead, we introduce the genuine voices of working palaeontologists, science communicators, artists, and dinosaur fanatics to tell a brief history of palaeontology and explore the world’s fascination with dinosaurs in popular culture.”

Everything Dinosaur sponsors film documentary screenings.

Everything Dinosaur is one of the sponsors of the UK screenings.

Tickets are available from £15 to £20. This fantastic event promises to be a thrilling journey into the age of dinosaurs, appealing to enthusiasts of all ages.

For tickets visit: “WHY DINOSAURS?” – Buy Tickets.

10 05, 2024

The New CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor will be in Stock Soon

By Mike|2024-05-10T14:18:08+01:00May 10th, 2024|Categories: Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Models, Dinosaur Fans, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products, Press Releases|0 Comments

The new for 2024, CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor dinosaur model will be in stock soon. A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur commented that the first new for 2024 CollectA figures will be arriving shortly. The model has been created to mark the centenary of the formal scientific description of the first Velociraptor species (Osborn, 1924.) The first Velociraptor species was V. mongoliensis. A second species was named and described in 2008 (V. osmolskae).

A spokesperson from the UK-based mail order company confirmed that the CollectA Deluxe Dearc pterosaur figure along with the 1:100 scale Dreadnoughtus models were arriving first. In addition, the set of mini-sauropod models will also be stocked shortly. The new 1:6 scale Velociraptor will be available later in the year.

The new for 2024 CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor model.

The new for 2024 CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor figure in lateral view. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor Model

The new dromaeosaurid figure features some new anatomical features associated with this type of dinosaur. This model has a propatagium on each forelimb. A propatagium is a fold of skin associated with the wing of volant birds. It is a soft tissue structure that unites the wrists and shoulders. It helps with the wing flapping motion. Scientists think that this structure may have first evolved to help these terrestrial animals make sharp turns yet remain balanced and stable as they ran.

To watch a short video review of the new Velociraptor figure: CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor Video Review.

A close-up view of the new CollectA Velociraptor dinosaur model.

The new Velociraptor model has an articulated lower jaw. The propatagium can be seen on the model helping to form the leading edge of the wing. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the range of CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal figures available from Everything Dinosaur: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Figures.

Scent Glands

The beautiful figure has also been given a pair of scent glands, either side of the cloaca. Velociraptor was an animal that lived in a desert environment. It probably lived in packs and had an extensive territory. It may have used scent marking to define territory and to delineate individual status within the pack. Many extant birds have scent glands. Reptiles such as crocodiles have scent glands as well. The CollectA design team have speculated that Velociraptor used scent marking too.

With such a big tail to waft any fragrances about, it does make sense.

The CollectA Velociraptor model in dorsal view.

The shape of the figure suggests an agile pursuit predator. The big tail with its extensive surface area could have helped to disperse scent on the desert wind. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that the CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor model would be in stock soon.

CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor dinosaur model.

The CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor model. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

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

9 05, 2024

Tyrannosaurus rex Was Not as Clever as a Primate According to New Research

By Mike|2024-05-07T12:48:53+01:00May 9th, 2024|Categories: Adobe CS5, Dinosaur Fans, Main Page, Palaeontological articles, Photos/Pictures of Fossils, Teaching|0 Comments

New scientific research has challenged the findings of a 2023 study that concluded T. rex may have been as clever as a primate. How smart was T. rex? That is a fascinating question, one that body and trace fossils cannot really answer. The idea that the Dinosauria were slow, lumbering, stupid giants has largely been debunked. However, scientists have continued to puzzle over their cognitive abilities.

In April 2023, Everything Dinosaur blogged about a controversial study by Dr Suzana Herculano-Houzel from the Department of Psychology at Vanderbilt University (Tennessee). Doctor Herculano-Houzel postulated that Tyrannosaurus rex had around 3 billion cerebral neurons. The Brazilian neuroscientist implied that this super-sized predator had cognitive capabilities that matched primates.

Titus the T.rex exhibit. A T. rex skeleton on display.

The spectacular Titus the T. rex exhibit at Wollaton Hall. How smart was T. rex? A newly published paper challenges an earlier study that postulated that this theropod was as clever as an extant primate. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The earlier paper proposed that large theropods such as Tyrannosaurus rex were long-lived, and remarkably intelligent. It was postulated that these animals had “macaque or baboon-like cognition”.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s blog post about this paper: How Big was a T. rex Brain?

Challenging Established Views About Dinosaur Intelligence

The research challenged established views on dinosaur biology and inferred behaviours. In addition, the earlier paper raised questions about whether neuron count estimates could benefit research on extinct animals in general. However, a team of international scientists, including Dr Darren Naish (University of Southampton), have refuted these claims. In a study published in “The Anatomical Record”, the researchers conclude that Tyrannosaurus rex was probably about as smart as a modern crocodile.

Their work reaffirms older theories about the intelligence of large theropods. Soft tissue structures like dinosaur brains rarely survive as fossils. Scientists can use endocasts, moulds made of the brain cavity to estimate brain size and structure. This is imperfect. For example, in extant crocodilians the brain only occupies about a third of the cranial cavity. In mammals and birds nearly 100% of this cavity is occupied by the brain. By revisiting Herculano-Houzel’s (2023) work, the researchers identified several crucial discrepancies regarding interpretation and analysis of data.

Dr Herculano-Houzel probably overestimated the size of the brain of T. rex. It was assumed that the brain filled the whole of the endocranial cavity. In essence, the brain size of T. rex was modelled on mammals and birds, but this new study suggests crocodilians are a better analogy.

Blue: olfactory bulb and tracts, Green: pallium (homologous to the mammalian cerebral cortex), Orange: cerebellum, Yellow: diencephalon and optic tectum, Violet: brain stem. Olfactory structures, pallium and subpallium comprise the telencephalon. The overlay in grey indicates extinct taxa, the brain morphologies of which are estimated. The brain morphology of extinct ornithodirans is similar when compared to living reptiles. Picture credit: Caspar et al.

How Smart was T. rex?

The data used by Dr Herculano-Houzel was found to be inconsistent. For instance, brain size estimates had included other structures that are located in the cranium, but not part of the brain, the olfactory bulb for example. In addition, the earlier study had used a mixture of both juvenile and adult tyrannosaurs. The use of not fully mature animals in the study could have led to inaccurate results.

The team revised the estimates of encephalisation and telencephalic neuron counts in the Dinosauria. For large-bodied theropods in particular, this study estimated significantly lower neuron counts than previously proposed. Their phylogenetic modelling indicated a neuron count for T. rex at between 250 million and 1.7 billion neurons. Although the data spread was substantial, the results modelled reflect the neuron counts found in extant crocodilians. This dataset did not produce neuron counts approaching those found in primates.

A close-up view of the Rebor T. rex Tusk figure.

A close-up view of the detail on the head of the Rebor T. rex Tusk dinosaur model. Although this theropod was a formidable predator, its intelligence may have been overestimated. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The image (above) shows a close-up view of a 1:35 scale model of a Rebor Tyrannosaurus rex.

To view the Rebor range of prehistoric animals available from Everything Dinosaur: Rebor Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Figures.

Brain Size May Not Represent the Best Measure of Cognitive Abilities

Furthermore, the researchers reviewed the suitability of neurological variables such as neuron numbers and relative brain size to predict cognitive complexity, metabolic rate and life history traits in dinosaurs. They concluded that these measures are not helpful when trying to assess the cognition of extinct creatures.

The team stated that trying to gauge the cognitive abilities of dinosaurs without close living analogues is extremely challenging. Neuron numbers might be considered a minor component in an assessment of intelligence and much more work is required to build a robust framework to better understand the level of cognition in extinct animals. In addition, the team concluded that given the depiction of dinosaurs in the popular media, researchers should acknowledge the limitations of the presented inferences to allow their audience to delineate between reasoned conclusions and speculation.

So, when it comes to calculating how smart was T. rex? Scientists have yet to devise robust models to explore dinosaur intelligence.

Everything Dinosaur acknowledges the assistance of the open-source paper (Caspar et al) published in the journal The Anatomical Record in the compilation of this article.

The scientific paper: “How smart was T. rex? Testing claims of exceptional cognition in dinosaurs and the application of neuron count estimates in palaeontological research” by Kai R. Caspar, Cristián Gutiérrez-Ibáñez, Ornella C. Bertrand, Thomas Carr, Jennifer A. D. Colbourne, Arthur Erb, Hady George, Thomas R. Holtz Jr, Darren Naish, Douglas R. Wylie and Grant R. Hurlburt published in The Anatomical Record.

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

8 05, 2024

Happy Birthday Sir David Attenborough Ninety-Eight Years Young!

By Mike|2024-05-07T15:14:31+01:00May 8th, 2024|Categories: Dinosaur Fans, Famous Figures, Main Page|0 Comments

Today, May the 8th is the ninety-eighth birthday of Sir David Attenborough. Sir David can be described as a “national treasure”. Naturalist, biologist, campaigner and broadcaster his work has spanned eight decades. Back in 2023, we experimented with artificial intelligence (AI) to compose a birthday message. Chat GPT was employed to compose a suitable piece for our blog.

To read last year’s birthday message: Happy 97th Birthday Sir David Attenborough.

Twelve months on, and AI continues to develop at a remarkable pace. For this year’s birthday message, we have utilised the AI chatbot aggregator Poe (poe.com) which provides users with access to a variety of AI tools and chatbots.

The AI Birthday Message

Happy 98th Birthday! Today, we celebrate not only another year of your remarkable life but also the immeasurable contributions you have made to our understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Your unwavering commitment to conservation and your extraordinary storytelling have touched the hearts of millions, leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness.

Still enthusing about the natural world, the remarkable Sir David Attenborough.

Through your captivating documentaries, you have taken us on awe-inspiring journeys, unravelling the wonders of our planet and shedding light on the urgent need to protect its fragile ecosystems. Your voice, filled with passion and knowledge, has served as a beacon of hope, reminding us of our responsibility as stewards of this magnificent Earth.

Your tireless efforts to raise awareness about climate change, biodiversity loss, and the importance of sustainable living have inspired a global movement. You have sparked conversations, ignited curiosity, and empowered countless individuals to take action, making a real difference in the fight to preserve our planet for future generations.

As we celebrate your 98th birthday, we are grateful for the wisdom and inspiration you continue to impart. Your dedication, resilience, and unwavering love for nature are a testament to a life well-lived. May this day be filled with joy, surrounded by loved ones, and may the year ahead bring you good health, happiness, and many more opportunities to share your invaluable knowledge with the world.

Happy birthday, Sir David Attenborough! Thank you for being a shining light in our quest to protect and cherish the beauty of our natural world.

ENDS

We added a media image, a signed photograph of Sir David that we received some years ago.

Many Happy Returns Sir David Attenborough

These are changing times, our world is changing, and technology is changing too. The genie is well and truly out of the bottle and AI is here to stay. It will continue to have an enormous impact on our lives and on our planet. Let us hope that technologies like artificial intelligence can help us develop strategies to combat climate change and to devise robust conservation strategies.

In the meantime, we continue to adopt processes and systems that increase the use of recycled materials in our business. Furthermore, we have embarked on several projects exploring the adoption of more sustainable product packaging. In addition, we are continuing to explore ways of reducing single use plastic within the model making industry.

We are sure Sir David would approve.

On that note, we wish you Sir, many happy returns.

Contact Everything Dinosaur to enquire about our environmental policy: Email Everything Dinosaur Team Members.

7 05, 2024

New Haolonggood Baryonyx Model (Wei Ding Guo) Reviewed

By Mike|2024-05-02T15:17:40+01:00May 7th, 2024|Categories: Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Product Reviews|0 Comments

Our thanks to dinosaur fan William who sent in a review of the Haolonggood Baryonyx model. William chose to review Wei Ding Guo, the brown coloured Baryonyx. William suggested that this model represented a female. The blue colour variant (Shan Ting) probably represented a male. Haolonggood have chosen to depict Baryonyx as a lithe and agile animal. Both Haolonggood Baryonyx models have articulated lower jaws.

William praised the design team and suggested that these figures had been inspired by Dr Scott Hartman’s interpretation of Baryonyx walkeri.

Haolonggood Baryonyx Wei Ding Guo model.

A stunning image of the new for 2024 Haolonggood Baryonyx model Wei Ding Guo wading through some water.

The reviewer stated:

“I really like the brown colouration with the admixture of mottling. It is all very natural and the heavy claw on both hands is expertly done.”

The Haolonggood Baryonyx Model (Wei Ding Guo)

William had been on a special quest to obtain accurate models of Baryonyx. He suggested that the late William Walker, who discovered the holotype fossils, would have been proud to own these Haolonggood figures. Both models measure twenty-six centimetres in length and stand nine centimetres high. Haolonggood have proposed a scale of 1:35 for their Baryonyx dinosaur models.

This Haolonggood Baryonyx model was described:

“A most excellent and accurate example of the species to add to one’s collection.”

Haolonggood Baryonyx dinosaur model (Shan Ting).

The Haolonggood Baryonyx dinosaur model in the blue colour scheme (Shan Ting).

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the range of Haolonggood prehistoric animal models in stock: Dinosaur Models from Haolonggood.

Praising Everything Dinosaur

William very kindly praised Everything Dinosaur team members.

He stated:

“Now let me take the final moments of my review to give praise where praise is due to Everything Dinosaur.”

He thanked the team for their efforts sourcing such a huge variety of prehistoric animal figures and models.

Our thanks to William for his kind words and for his comments praising Everything Dinosaur.

Visit the award-winning and easy to use Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models, Figures and Toys.

4 05, 2024

Spotting Jurassic Fossils During a Trip to London

By Mike|2024-05-04T13:02:05+01:00May 4th, 2024|Categories: Adobe CS5, Dinosaur Fans, Geology, Main Page, Photos/Pictures of Fossils|0 Comments

Team members at Everything Dinosaur spotted some Jurassic fossils whilst on a recent trip to London. It might be surprising to learn that you can see fossils in our capital city, but you can if you know where to look. You do not have to visit a museum to see fossilised remains of prehistoric animals. Many of the buildings in London are made from Portland stone. This limestone, famed for its quality is quarried in Dorset. Dorset is famous of having much of the “Jurassic Coast” within it. Other famous buildings are also constructed from limestone. These rocks too, also contain lots of fossils of marine invertebrates.

The Victoria and Albert Museum, also known as the V&A is built from limestone. The front facade and the low walls surrounding the building are full of Jurassic fossils. They are easy to spot.

Jurassic fossils preserved in Portland stone.

The stones used to build the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A Museum) in London contain fossils. The stone is probably similar to Portland stone from Dorset (southern England). Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Jurassic Fossils in London

The Museum was founded in 1852. Like many Victorian buildings in Britain, it was constructed from Jurassic limestone. It is located in South Kensington, a short distance from the London Natural History Museum.

To read an article from Everything Dinosaur about fossil hunting in London: Fossil Hunting in London A Guide to Finding Fossils in the Capital.

These stones contain the fossilised remains of thousands of marine gastropods, brachiopods and bivalves. These stones preserve a record of a devastating event. An immense natural disaster such as a tropical storm or tsunami smashed a shallow marine habitat. The shallow seascape took the full force of this natural disaster. The jumbled remains of the invertebrates can be clearly seen in the building stones.

The stones may also contain fragmentary remains of Jurassic ammonites.

A selection of ammonite fossils fragments of ammonites and other marine invertebrates can be found in stones used for building materials. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Visitors to London can find evidence of the destruction of an ancient marine ecosystem preserved in the buildings.

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models and Prehistoric Animal Toys.