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

Everything Dinosaur’s product news.

1 12, 2024

New CollectA Deluxe Models – Official Images

By |2024-11-29T15:16:48+00:00December 1st, 2024|Categories: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

Official images have been received for the pair of new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe models announced by Everything Dinosaur on Friday 29th November (2024).  The CollectA Deluxe models in question are the 1:40 scale Maip macrothorax figure and the 1:20 scale Phorusrhacos.

The official image of the new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Maip macrothorax figure. One of the new CollectA Deluxe models.

The official image of the new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Maip macrothorax figure.

Viewing official images of prehistoric animal models is extremely helpful for model collectors. These images highlight the model’s details. Collectors can assess quality and anatomical accuracy. They help ensure the model represents the prehistoric animal correctly. These images can reassure and inform. Official images also reveal paint schemes and textures. This information aids in making informed purchasing decisions. Ultimately, official images enhance the collecting experience.

Introducing New for 2025 CollectA Deluxe Models

Everything Dinosaur team members had been sent some exclusive images of the Maip and the Phorusrhacos prototypes.  These images had been used to introduce the two figures in a special blog post: New CollectA Models for 2025 (Part 5- Final).

New releases had been announced by Everything Dinosaur in collaboration with CollectA every Friday morning throughout November (2024).  In total, five announcements were made.  The official images of the Maip and the Phorusrhacos had not been received at the time of the co-ordinated announcements.  However, we appreciate the importance of official images, and we have included them for collectors here.

One of the new CollectA Deluxe models for 2025. The official image of the CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale Phorusrhacos model.

The official image of the CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale Phorusrhacos model.

To view the range of CollectA Deluxe models in stock: Scale Models of Prehistoric Animals.

The Importance of Official Images

Mike from Everything Dinosaur recognises the importance of official images from the manufacturer.

He explained:

“Viewing official images of models helps collectors gauge their quality and accuracy before buying.”

The announcements about new models from CollectA have concluded.  In total, there will be seven new prehistoric animal figures introduced next year.

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

29 11, 2024

New CollectA Prehistoric Animal Models for 2025 – Part 5 (Final)

By |2024-11-28T15:11:02+00:00November 29th, 2024|Categories: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur in collaboration with our friends at CollectA reveal two new prehistoric animal models for 2025. These are the last of the new reveals from CollectA for next year. A 1:40 scale replica of the giant “Megaraptor” Maip macrothorax will be introduced. In addition, collectors can expect a 1:20 scale replica of a “Terror Bird” – Phorusrhacos. Both these predators roamed South America.  However, they were separated by tens of millions of years.  These two, new CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models are welcome additions to the CollectA model portfolio.

  • CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Maip macrothorax.
  • CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale Phorusrhacos.
The 1:40 scale Maip macrothorax model one of the new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models.

The new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe M. macrothorax figure shown in lateral view.

The image (above) shows the new theropod model, the 1:40 scale Maip macrothorax model.

One of the new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models - the 1:20 scale Phorusrhacos.

The CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale Phorusrhacos model.

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that these figures would be in stock at Everything Dinosaur.  However, at this time, it was not possible to give an exact date.  It is likely that both these figures will be available later next year, after the first batch of new models such as the CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus had arrived.

To view the CollectA Deluxe range in stock: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models.

The CollectA Deluxe 1:40 Scale Maip macrothorax

Maip macrothorax (My-eep mac-row-thor-ax) was formally described in 2022 (Rolando et al).  Its fossils come from the Chorrillo Formation of Santa Cruz, Argentina.  Maip lived at the very end of the Cretaceous (Maastrichtian faunal stage).

One of the new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models - the 1:40 scale Maip macrothorax.

A model of the Late Cretaceous “megaraptor” M. macrothorax from CollectA.  The model could have an articulated lower jaw.

Creating CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models Based on Fragmentary Fossils

Although known from fragmentary material, palaeontologists have been able to learn more about the enigmatic “megaraptors”. Maip macrothorax was a giant. With an estimated body length of around ten metres, this theropod is the largest member of the Megaraptoridae family known to science. Rib bones indicate that Maip was deep chested and extremely robust. The new CollectA Deluxe model depicts the body shape of this formidable predator nicely.  For example, the model has long, strong grasping forelimbs and there is a huge claw on digit I. The terrifying Maip was named after an evil spirit of the Andes.

CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Maip macrothorax model.

The CollectA Deluxe Maip macrothorax model measures 26 cm in length.  The figure has a recent injury on its shoulder/coracoid. The deep lacerations indicate it was attacked by another Maip.

The model measures approximately twenty-six centimetres long.  At this size, the 1:40 scale representing a dinosaur in excess of ten metres in length is quite accurate.  The model has a wound on its right shoulder/coracoid. The three deep scratches indicate that it received a blow from another Maip!

To read about the discovery of Maip macrothoraxA New, Giant Megaraptor from South America.

The discovery of Maip lends support to the theory that these theropods were not members of the Allosauria clade.  Instead, they were coelurosaurs and therefore related to the dinosaur lineage that gave rise to the birds. The CollectA Deluxe Maip macrothorax model has been given a flamboyant crest of feathers.  In addition, there is a light covering of bristle-like feathers on the back of its neck and running down the spine as a tribute to its avian affinities.

The CollectA Deluxe 1:20 Scale Phorusrhacos

The seventh and final new CollectA figure for 2025 is a “Terror Bird” model.  Fans of prehistoric animal figures have been requesting a new phorusrhacid model to accompany the CollectA Deluxe Kelenken that came out in 2011. Phorusrhacos (Four-rus-rak-cus) was a large, carnivorous, flightless bird from the Miocene of South America.

CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models - the CollectA Deluxe Phorusrhacos.

The new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale Phorusrhacos model shown in an oblique posterior view.

It had a total body length of around 2.8 metres.  Moreover, the head with that vicious, hooked beak stood approximately 2.4 metres tall.  The skull of this formidable predator was nearly sixty-five centimetres in length.  Numerous CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models have articulated jaws. This Phorusrhacos figure is likely to have an articulated beak.

At around fourteen centimetres in length, this model accurately reflects the 1:20 scale declaration. The model’s colouration has been influenced by the only living relative of the phorusrhacids, the seriema. The extant seriemas are the only surviving members of the order Cariamiformes which also includes the extinct Phorusrhacidae. The CollectA Deluxe Phorusrhacos model has a paint scheme similar to a red-legged seriema (Cariama cristata).

Fossilised footprints from a “Terror Bird” have revealed that these flightless birds had a large, curved claw on their second toe, just like the sickle-shaped toe claw of dromaeosaurids!  The CollectA Deluxe Phorusrhacos figure shows this feature.  In addition, the second toe claw is raised off the ground.  This toe claw probably helped Phorusrhacos to pin down its victims.

Spotting a Detail on the Phorusrhacos Base

A broken canine tooth has been spotted on the base of the Phorusrhacos figure. Phorusrhacos is often depicted fighting sabre-toothed cats such as Smilodon.  However, Phorusrhacos became extinct long before the formation of the Isthmus of Panama that united North and South America and permitted the migration of big cats into South America. During the Miocene, the main mammalian predators in South America were sparassodonts (Sparassodonta). Sabre-toothed forms evolved (Thylacosmilidae) such as Patagosmilus goini which lived during the middle Miocene. So, it is entirely plausible that a Phorusrhacos may have walked by a broken canine from a sabre-toothed sparassodont.

There is a broken canine tooth incorporated into the base of the CollectA Deluxe Phorusrhacos.

When viewed in left lateral view the broken canine tooth of a mammalian predator can be seen on the base of the figure.

CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models

Mike from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that both figures would be in stock at Everything Dinosaur sometime in 2025.

He added:

“Maip and Phorusrhacos are great additions to the CollectA Deluxe model range.  We are not sure when they will be available, but we will do all we can to bring them into our warehouse as quickly as possible.  Thank you CollectA for sending us these exclusive images.”

Confirmation of the details of these latest CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models:

  • CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Maip macrothorax (model length 26 cm approximately.  This figure may have an articulated lower jaw).
  • CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale Phorusrhacos “Terror Bird” (model length 14 cm approximately.  This figure may have an articulated beak).

Our thanks to CollectA for providing Everything Dinosaur with some exclusive images of these new figures.

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

26 11, 2024

New Papo Ampelosaurus Dinosaur Model In Stock

By |2024-11-27T06:13:21+00:00November 26th, 2024|Categories: Papo Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

The new for late 2024 Papo Ampelosaurus dinosaur model is now in stock at Everything Dinosaur.  Dinosaur fans and model collectors have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of this new figure.  Team members have been busy contacting all those customers who wanted to be informed of this dinosaur’s arrival.  Mike from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that all those customers who had requested a model had now been contacted.

Papo Ampelosaurus dinosaur model.

A Papo Ampelosaurus figure in the Everything Dinosaur packing room. The model is shown in lateral view. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the range of Papo dinosaur and prehistoric animal models in stock: Papo Prehistoric Animal Models.

The Papo Ampelosaurus Dinosaur Model

The Papo Ampelosaurus joins a Brachiosaurus, young Apatosaurus and an Amargasaurus in the Papo “Les Dinosaures” range.  Indeed, the last sauropod model to be added to the Papo range was the Amargasaurus.  It was introduced in 2018.  The new Ampelosaurus is a typical Papo figure.  It has that certain Papo “je ne sais quoi”, extremely apt for a French manufacturer.

The model measures an impressive forty-three centimetres in length.  It stands approximately sixteen centimetres tall.

Papo Ampelosaurus dinosaur model.

The Papo Ampelosaurus dinosaur model.

Ampelosaurus was formally named and described in 1995 (Le Loeuff).  It is regarded as a member of the Titanosauria clade. Ampelosaurus fossils have been found in France. Other material from Spain previously ascribed to Ampelosaurus is now thought to represent a different titanosaur taxon. It lived at the end of the Cretaceous (Early Maastrichtian faunal stage).  Size estimates vary.  However, palaeontologist Gregory S. Paul estimated that this dinosaur grew to around sixteen metres in length.  He thought this dinosaur would have weighed around eight tonnes. Papo do not declare a scale for this figure.  Notwithstanding this, if the model measures forty-three centimetres long, then this would represent a 1:37 scale figure.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“We had wanted to get this figure into stock before the end of the year.  There had been a lot of requests to reserve a model.  Moreover, many of these requests came from our French customers. I guess, they wanted to get their hands on a model of an iconic French dinosaur.”

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

24 11, 2024

The Official Image of the New CollectA Deluxe Gallimimus Model

By |2024-11-22T14:47:35+00:00November 24th, 2024|Categories: 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.

22 11, 2024

New CollectA Prehistoric Animal Models for 2025 – Part 4

By |2024-11-21T23:04:50+00:00November 22nd, 2024|Categories: 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.

18 11, 2024

Maxim the Baryonyx Model – A New Review

By |2024-11-21T14:09:06+00:00November 18th, 2024|Categories: 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.

16 11, 2024

The Beautiful PNSO Yangchuanosaurus Dinosaur Model

By |2024-11-17T20:23:43+00:00November 16th, 2024|Categories: 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|Categories: 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.

11 11, 2024

The Official Image of the New CollectA Deluxe Giant Short-faced Bear

By |2024-11-08T16:48:24+00:00November 11th, 2024|Categories: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur recently received the official image of the CollectA giant short-faced bear model.  We had received some exclusive images of the prototype, however, now we can post up the official image from the manufacturer. It certainly is a wonderful model of Arctodus simus.  A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that it would be in stock next year (2025), but they were not quite sure when. It should be available in the spring.

The CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear model.

The CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear figure. This model will be in stock at Everything Dinosaur in 2025. This is the official CollectA image included in the media release.

Intriguingly, the model in this view does not show the torn right ear.  This was a detail we highlighted in an earlier blog post when we announced this new figure.

To read our earlier blog post about the CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simusNew CollectA Models for 2025 (Part 2).

The CollectA Giant Short-faced Bear

This is the third prehistoric animal figure for 2025 to have been announced.  It joins the CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Popular Furcatoceratops and the remarkable 1:20 scale CollectA Deluxe Jaekelopterus.  Congratulations to CollectA these three models represent the enormous variety in the CollectA range.

The CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus model has already attracted a lot of interest from dinosaur fans and model collectors.  Furthermore, having received the official CollectA image we can comment on some of the additional details that can be seen.  However, if you only have the official image to guide you, you will have missed that torn ear detail.

CollectA Arctodus simus model.

The CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale giant short-faced bear. This figure shows some remarkable details, including a damaged ear. The red arrow points to the torn ear.

How Big is the Model?

There has been speculation as to the model’s size.  We can now confirm that the official measurements for this figure are height 17.3 cm, and length including that outstretched left paw, is around 9.5 cm.  With a declared height of 17.3 cm, this suggests an animal standing around 3.46 metres tall in 1:20 scale.

This confirms that this figure probably represents a male.  Males were much larger than the females.  In addition, it demonstrates the accuracy of this model, in terms of its scaling. The largest specimens of A. simus probably stood around 3.4 metres tall when they reared up onto their hind legs.

Confirmation of the height measurement of the CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus model.

Confirming the size of the CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear model. Picture credit: Additional annotation by Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Additional annotation by Everything Dinosaur.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that this model should be available around the same time as the Furcatoceratops and the 1:20 scale Jaekelopterus model (spring 2025).

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

Paws for Thought – A “False Thumb”

A close-up examination of the right paw of the CollectA figure reveals further carefully crafted details.  The pad has an enlarged and raised area under digit I (the thumb). This feature is seen in the only extant bear in the Tremarctinae subfamily (Tremarctos ornatus). In addition, almost diagonally opposite, there is a second, oval-shaped pad. It is the pad associated with the radial sesamoid bone.

This feature is also found in T. ornatus (the spectacled bear), as well as extant pandas.  This suggest that the sesamoid pad is a primitive, more basal characteristic that was lost in later bear taxa.  It is often referred to as the “False Thumb” as it has a role in helping the bear to grasp plant stems and other items.

The right paw of the CollectA giant short-faced bear figure.

A close-up view of the right paw of the CollectA giant short-faced bear model. The “False Thumb” is highlighted along with a secondary fleshy area of pad opposite it. This morphology reflects what is seen in the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus).

Picture credit: Additional annotation by Everything Dinosaur

Team members at Everything Dinosaur are looking forward to the CollectA giant short-faced bear model coming into stock.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur added:

“The official CollectA image shows the details on the paw of the figure nicely.  This 1:20 scale figure should be in stock sometime in the spring of 2025.”

Visit the award-winning website of Everything Dinosaur: Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Toys.

8 11, 2024

New CollectA Models for 2025 – Part 2

By |2024-11-07T21:28:32+00:00November 8th, 2024|Categories: CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Popular and CollectA Prehistoric Life Models|2 Comments

Today, we make a second announcement about new CollectA prehistoric animal models for 2025.  A CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale giant short-faced bear model will be available next year.  CollectA seem to have listened carefully to the requests of model collectors, and as a result, they have made a replica of Arctodus simus.  We at Everything Dinosaur are not sure when this prehistoric bear figure will be available. Perhaps, we will be able to stock it in the spring.  CollectA have kindly sent us some exclusive images of this new Arctodus simus model.  We can share some of these images with you.

  • CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale giant short-faced bear (Arctodus simus).
CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus model.

The new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear (Arctodus simus). The figure has a stated scale of 1:20.

The CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus Model

The CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear is depicted rearing up.  The engineering team should be congratulated as they have created quite a dynamic pose, whilst maintaining the model’s stability.  The figure represents a male, and that white flash on the chest is most distinctive.  The closest living relative to A. simus is the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus).  It too, tends to have a lighter coloured chest compared to the rest of its body, which is mainly covered in black fur.

CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear (Arctodus simus).

The image of the CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale A. simus shows the distinctive short snout of this genus. The figure has a disproportionately short snout compared to extant bears within the Ursinae subfamily (polar bear, black bear, brown bear).

The figure has a disproportionately short snout compared to most living bears.  Hence the common name for this taxon – the giant short-faced bear.

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

The Giant Short-faced Bear

This giant bear inhabited North America during the Pleistocene Epoch. It had an extensive range. Fossils of A. simus have been found as far south as Mexico and in Canada. Once thought to be almost entirely carnivorous, it is likely that, like most extant bears, it was omnivorous. The CollectA model represents a male. Males were much larger than the females. The largest specimens stood nearly 1.7 metres high at the shoulder and would have weighed nearly a tonne.  When rearing up, a large male could stand around three and a half metres tall.

Isotope analysis of fossil teeth and bones suggests that this bear browsed on vegetation.  However, it also consumed other animals such as deer and tapirs.  Large males probably chased predators off their kills, allowing these big animals to feed on the carcase.  The white flash on the face, neck and chest of the CollectA model would have helped to intimidate both diurnal and nocturnal hunters allowing the bear to take over the kill.

CollectA Arctodus simus model.

The CollectA design team have provided some nice touches of detail on this model. For example, a small fleshy pad can be seen below the left paw. This is the “false thumb” associated with the sesamoid bone. This feature is found in the living member of the Tremarctinae subfamily – the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus). The red arrow points to a torn ear.

The CollectA Arctodus simus Model and the “False Thumb”

The CollectA figure shows lots of detail such as the “false thumb” just below the main pad of the paw.  This hard pad marks the location of the radial sesamoid bone in the wrist.  This anatomical trait is seen in the spectacled bear and also in the distantly related giant panda.  The CollectA figure has a torn right ear (as indicated by the red arrow in the image).

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that this figure would be in stock next year (2025), but at this time they were not sure when.

Our thanks to CollectA for sending us these fantastic photographs of their new Arctodus simus model.

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

Go to Top