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

Everything Dinosaur’s product news.

16 05, 2020

More Papo Prehistoric Animals Arrive

By |2024-02-20T07:50:13+00:00May 16th, 2020|Categories: Adobe CS5, Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products, Press Releases|0 Comments

More Papo Prehistoric Animals Arrive

This week, team members at Everything Dinosaur were able to bring in another shipment of Papo prehistoric animal models.  In total, we were able to replenish stocks of eleven Papo figures.  As part of our planning to help maintain our mail order business in the advent of a lockdown due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), we put into place some contingency stock that we could draw upon quite easily to help ensure that we could keep delivering products to our customers.

Papo Pentaceratops and Gorgosaurus Gift Box Stocks Replenished

Papo Gorgosaurus and Pentaceratops box set.
The Papo Gorgosaurus and Pentaceratops box set. Stock of this popular gift set has been replenished.

Papo Prehistoric Animal Models

The new for 2020 Papo figures remain unlikely to become available until August at the earliest.  The Papo factory has been badly affected by the coronavirus pandemic.  If Everything Dinosaur gets news about the new for 2020 Papo prehistoric animals we shall, of course, post this information up onto our social media platforms including this site.

A Wide Range of Papo Prehistoric Animals

The latest delivery into our warehouse consists of a range of Papo figures.   These deliveries are all part of our planning and contingency operations to keep product stocks available to our customers.  Along with the Papo Gorgosaurus and Pentaceratops gift box, the shipment also contained a small number of Papo Pentaceratops and Gorgosaurus models so we can continue to sell these figures individually.

On Hand!  The Papo Pentaceratops Dinosaur Model

Papo Pentaceratops dinosaur model.
The Papo Pentaceratops dinosaur model. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“We continue to do all we can to protect our team members and to assist the public.  Social distancing measures have been put in place as part of a suite of measures to keep us operating as normally as possible in these far from normal times.  We know how important it is for our customers when it comes to indulging a hobby or shopping for birthday gifts and presents, so far, the steps we have taken have permitted us to keep going.  Part of our strategy was to plan for a time when deliveries to our warehouse would be difficult, so we have been able to stockpile certain items that have helped us to manage inventories effectively.”

The Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

The Warehouse Delivery Also Included the Papo Carnotaurus

Papo Carnotaurus model.
“Meat-eating Bull” from Papo.  The Papo Carnotaurus dinosaur model was also included in our latest re-supply shipment.

Maintaining Product Stocks

With so much uncertainty about with regards to factory production schedules, Everything Dinosaur is doing all it can to maintain supplies.  For example, next week, further deliveries are expected from CollectA and Rebor and plans are in place to obtain more Bullyland figures.

In the meantime, to view the Papo prehistoric animal models available from Everything Dinosaur: Papo Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Models.

15 05, 2020

Customers Praise Fantastic Everything Dinosaur

By |2024-02-20T07:46:03+00:00May 15th, 2020|Categories: Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur News and Updates, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products, Press Releases, Product Reviews|0 Comments

Customers Praise Everything Dinosaur

These are certainly challenging times for us all.  Much of the world continues to be in lockdown due to the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19).  We hope that everyone is keeping well and staying safe.  Our thoughts are with all those families that have been affected by this pandemic.  We would like to convey our thoughts and sympathies to all those who have been affected.

At Everything Dinosaur, we continue to do all we can to try to keep a sense of normality for our customers.  Team members have provided support and assistance as they know how important birthdays can be so they have been working extra hard to ensure parcels are despatched promptly.

Everything Dinosaur Receives Customer Comments

We do appreciate all the kind comments and feedback that we receive.  Feefo, the independent rating company have published thousands of customer reviews about us.  We also received comments and reviews from customers on our own website.

Here are some recent examples:

Tommy wrote into Everything Dinosaur stating:

“I received my order today and can I please just say you run a fantastic website and the new dinosaurs (including the fantastic fact sheets) have made my son’s and wife’s day.  Have a fantastic day and keep up the outstanding work.”

Pam commented:

“I just wanted to say thank you for such a prompt delivery.  We are so glad we found your website.”

Dawn emailed to thank us for our speedy delivery, she wrote:

“I would like to thank you for my order.  My son was delighted with the purchase to add to his ever growing dinosaur collection.  Fast delivery; day after ordering, exceptional customer service, amazing quality dinosaur & a nice touch; the fact sheet.  We will definitely purchase again in the future.  Thank you.”

Model collector Ed reviewed the CollectA Torosaurus model that he had recently purchased from us:

“Nice to have a model of a not very well known dinosaur.  Torosaurus was in walking with dinosaurs and they made a figure as well.  A smallish model but it really shows its large head in comparison to the rest of its body.  Nice colouring to.  Good service from Everything Dinosaur.”

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

The CollectA Torosaurus Model is Praised Along with Everything Dinosaur

CollectA Torosaurus Prehistoric Life dinosaur model.
The CollectA Prehistoric Life Torosaurus dinosaur model.  A favourite model of Ed and lots of other dinosaur model collectors too.

Our thanks to everyone who takes the time and trouble to provide us with feedback.  We really, really appreciate your views and support.

Stay well, keep safe.

To contact Everything Dinosaur team members: Contact Us by Email.

14 05, 2020

Stunning Wild Past Protoceratops Model on Display

By |2024-02-20T07:39:38+00:00May 14th, 2020|Categories: Adobe CS5, Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products, Product Reviews|0 Comments

The Photogenic Wild Past Protoceratops

Our thanks to model collector Elizabeth who sent into Everything Dinosaur a photograph of her recently acquired Wild Past Protoceratops dinosaur model on display.  Enthusiastic collector Elizabeth had combined her Protoceratops andrewsi figure with the base from the Paleo-Creatures Moschops replica.  The result is a very effective composition, highlighting the attention to detail that can be found in both these ranges, Wild Past and Paleo-Creatures.

The Wild Past Protoceratops

The Wild Past 1:35 Scale Protoceratops andrewsi Displayed on the Paleo-Creatures Moschops Base

Wild Past Protoceratops model combined with the Paleo-Creatures Moschops display base.
A Wild Past Protoceratops andrewsi combined with the base from the Paleo-Creatures Moschops figure.

Depicting an Ancient Environment

Elizabeth’s choice of display base for her model is very appropriate.  Protoceratops fossil remains are associated with two geological formations, the Djadochta Formation epitomised by the astonishing beauty and desolation of the Flaming Cliffs site, the type locality for this formation, from which the fossil remains of Protoceratops andrewsi have been recovered.  Secondly, the larger species Protoceratops hellenikorhinus, is known from the Bayan Mandahu Formation which outcrops some 450 km (280 miles) to the south-east of the Flaming Cliffs location.

Both formations are dominated by sandstones and remarkably, the climate in these areas today is roughly comparable to the palaeo-climate of the Late Cretaceous.  Displaying the Wild Past Protoceratops andrewsi on a sandy base is an accurate reconstruction of the habitat of this neoceratopsian.

The biota associated with the Upper Cretaceous deposits of the Djadochta and Bayan Mandahu formations occupied a harsh, arid scrubland with little permanent water.  Biologists refer to such difficult habitats as “stressed environments”, the absence of large vertebrates, such as the fossils of much bigger dinosaurs, supports the hypothesis that Protoceratops and the other Late Cretaceous residents had to endure a harsh climate.

The Paleo-Creatures Moschops Model with the Sandy Display Base

Paleo-Creatures Moschops replica.
The Paleo-Creatures Moschops figure is in 1:20 scale.  Model collector Elizabeth has used the display base for her Wild Past Protoceratops figure.  Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

An Exciting Start for a New Model Range

The 1:35 scale Protoceratops is the first in a new range of models (Wild Past), Elizabeth emailed to say:

“Here’s another photo for you to use if you wish.  It’s the Wild Past Protoceratops – I think this is such an exciting start to a new line.”

Ironically, both the Wild Past Protoceratops and the Paleo-Creatures Moschops have featured on Everything Dinosaur’s YouTube channel, in a series of short videos we have entitled “turntable Tuesday”.

The Moschops and the Protoceratops andrewsi videos can be found on Everything Dinosaur’s YouTube channel: Everything Dinosaur on YouTube.

The Wild Past Protoceratops Dinosaur Model Showcased by Everything Dinosaur for “Turntable Tuesday”

Wild Past Protoceratops "turntable Tuesday" at Everything Dinosaur
The Wild Past Protoceratops ready for “turntable Tuesday” at Everything Dinosaur. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

Commenting upon her photograph, Elizabeth added:

“She [the Protoceratops] is gate-crashing the base of the Paleo-Creatures Moschops.  She seems intent on checking out the sizeable footprint of the animal that walked over the sand previously, perhaps while she was away foraging for her minute hatchlings in the nest!”

In our correspondence with the photographer, we highlighted a research paper published back in 2011, that examined an extremely rare event preserved in the fossil record.  A footprint of a protoceratopsid dinosaur had been found in association with the fossilised remains of a Protoceratops.  As Elizabeth’s photograph depicts a Protoceratops investigating a footprint, it could be argued that is an example of art imitating science.

Link to our blog article about the 2011 protoceratopsid body and trace fossil study: Stopping a Dinosaur Dead in its Tracks.

Our thanks to Elizabeth for sending into Everything Dinosaur such a well-composed photograph.

The Wild Past Protoceratops model can be found here: Wild Past Models.

12 05, 2020

Popular Bullyland Ammonite Model “Turntable Tuesday”

By |2024-02-19T09:28:34+00:00May 12th, 2020|Categories: Adobe CS5, Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Everything Dinosaur videos, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products, Product Reviews|0 Comments

“Turntable Tuesday” Bullyland Ammonite Model

It’s “Turntable” Tuesday at Everything Dinosaur!  The time of the week when we put another prehistoric animal model on our turntable and give it a spin.  Today, it is the turn of the Bullyland ammonite model, the first invertebrate to feature in this series and an ammonite replica that it is used by museums all over the world to illustrate the Ammonoidea.

The Bullyland Ammonite Model “Turntable Tuesday”

Video credit: Everything Dinosaur

Ammonite Replicas

The Bullyland ammonite is one of the most popular figures in the German company’s “Dinosaur Park” range.  It depicts a typical ammonite, with large eyes, a hypernome and a beautifully detailed beak (mouth).  The shell has an inverted keel and it is strongly ribbed, characteristics associated with a number of known genera from both the Jurassic and Cretaceous geological periods.

The Bullyland Ammonite Model

Bullyland ammonite model.
The Bullyland replica ammonite model.  The strongly ribbed shell, large eyes and the presence of a hypernome (siphon).

Visit the award-winning and user-friendly Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

Ubiquitous and Important Extinct Group of Cephalopods

Although extinct, animals in the Subclass Ammonoidea are extremely important to scientists.  Ammonites are members of the Mollusca Phylum that lived in chambered shells and were entirely marine.  Many hundreds of different genera are known.  The ability to evolve rapidly, to leave abundant fossil material in the form of their fossilised shells (comprised of aragonite, a naturally occurring crystalline form of calcium carbonate), has made these molluscs ideal candidates for zonal fossils.

Outcrops of rock, although in some cases, separated by thousands of miles and composed of different constituents, limestone and sandstone for example, can be correlated due to the fact that they contain similar ammonite fossils.  The technique of using fossils to identify the relative age of sediments is called biostratigraphy.  Rock layers are divided into distinct and easily identifiable zones as they are characterised by one or more particular fossil species.  Ammonites make ideal zone fossils.

The Bullyland Ammonite Model is Often Used in Museum Exhibits

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

Used in Museum Displays and Exhibits

In the short video, the ammonite model is shown next to a fossil specimen.  Many museums use the Bullyland ammonite replica in display cases so that visitors can get an idea of what the living animal was like whilst they view the fossilised remains of the ammonite aragonite shells.

The Posterior Portion of the Bullyland Ammonite Model

Ammonite model next to a fossil specimen.
The strongly ribbed shell and the obvious keel of the ammonite replica. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The Bullyland Ammonite Model Features in “Turntable Tuesday”

The “turntable Tuesday” ammonite model video, lasts a little over two minutes, it is one of a series of videos posted on Everything Dinosaur’s YouTube channel showcasing different replicas.  To view these videos check out our YouTube channel: Everything Dinosaur on YouTube.

We recommend that readers subscribe to Everything Dinosaur on YouTube.

To view the Bullyland ammonite model and to see the rest of the Bullyland prehistoric animal models available from Everything Dinosaur: Bullyland Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Animal Models.

11 05, 2020

A Stunning Sarcosuchus Goes for a Swim

By |2024-02-18T13:58:24+00:00May 11th, 2020|Categories: Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products|0 Comments

Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus

Our thanks to Amy who sent into Everything Dinosaur some beautiful photographs of her recently acquired Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus model.  It looks like the recent good weather was taken advantage of so that the Sarcosuchus could patrol outside.  These are wonderful well-composed photographs, especially the ones of the Sarcosuchus in the water.

The Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus Ready to Ambush

Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus replica.
A Sarcosuchus takes to the water.  Our thanks to Amy for sending into Everything Dinosaur some wonderful photographs of her recently acquired Sarcosuchus model.

Picture credit: Amy

Sarcosuchus

The Sarcosuchus certainly looks very much at home in the water.  It looks like it is ready to ambush any unwary dinosaur that decides to take a drink.  Only distantly related to extant crocodylians, very little was known about this giant predator until an almost complete skull was unearthed in Niger by a French research team (1964).  A series of expeditions to the same region of Africa led by the famous American palaeontologist Paul Sereno in the mid 1990’s resulted in the discovery of six new specimens and it was from these remains that the body plan of this crocodyliform was reconstructed.

It is Likely that Sarcosuchus was an Ambusher of Animals that Ventured to Close to the Water

Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus.
Ready to ambush!  The Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus model.

Picture credit: Amy

Sarcosuchus Going for a Swim

The Sarcosuchus model looks quite at home in Amy’s garden pond.  The model of “flesh crocodile” measures an impressive 26.5 centimetres long and it is one of the largest prehistoric animal models introduced this year by Safari Ltd.  Only the Edmontosaurus replica surpasses it in size.  In keeping with the scientific paper published in 2001 by Sereno et al when the fossilised specimens found during the 1990s were formally described, Amy has chosen to depict her Sarcosuchus as a semi-aquatic animal.  It would have basked on the riverbank and occasionally moved around on land, but it probably did not stray too far from water.

To view the Wild Safari Prehistoric World range of models: Wild Safari Prehistoric World Models and Figures.

Sarcosuchus Probably Did Not Stray Far from Water

Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus model.
The Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus model takes a stroll in the sunshine.

Picture credit: Amy

A Beautifully Painted Crocodyliform

The design team at Safari Ltd studied the scales and markings on living crocodiles in order to create their detailed prehistoric crocodile model.  The photograph (above), shows the different sized scales on the replica, smaller rounded scales on the flanks with larger, rectangular scales on the legs and the underside of the animal.  The parallel rows of osteoderms that run down from the neck to the tail have been skilfully recreated and the model demonstrates the bulbous upper jaw tip first identified in that almost complete fossil skull found in the Gadoufaoua region of northern Niger in 1964.

A Close View of the Head of the Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus Model

Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus model.
A close view of the beautifully painted head and jaws of the Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus model.

Picture credit: Amy

Fossils from Africa and Also from Brazil

Two species of Sarcosuchus have been scientifically described.  Fossils from Africa associated with Lower Cretaceous outcrops of the Elrhaz Formation have been ascribed to S. imperator, whereas, the much older strata from the Ihas Group outcropping in north-eastern Brazil have yielded specimens that have been ascribed to the species S. hartti.  The holotype material associated with S. hartti resides at the London Natural History Museum, but given the huge temporal range which spans the African and Brazilian material, it is very likely that other Sarcosuchus species and closely related genera will be identified.

Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus

Sarcosuchus on the prowl.
Wild Safari Prehistoric World Sarcosuchus on the prowl.  A carefully composed shot with an effective use of perspective to give the impression of a sizeable animal walking by.

Picture credit: Amy

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Our thanks to Amy for sending into us some splendid and carefully composed photographs of her Sarcosuchus model.”

The Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

To view the Sarcosuchus replica and the rest of the models in the Safari Ltd range: Wild Safari Prehistoric World models and figures.

10 05, 2020

Fantastic Papo Tyrannosaurids Dinosaur Models

By |2024-02-19T09:21:36+00:00May 10th, 2020|Categories: Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur News and Updates, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products, Press Releases|0 Comments

Papo Tyrannosaurids – A Pair of Papo Tyrannosaurs

At Everything Dinosaur, we like to do our best when it comes to assisting our customers.  Take for example, a fan of Papo prehistoric animal models who asked us to photograph a Papo brown Tyrannosaurus rex model and the Papo Gorgosaurus replica prior to making a potential purchase.  Our team members were happy to oblige and emailed over several photographs from the company’s own studio of the two tyrannosaurids including a picture of the two prehistoric animals together on one of the turntables we use for our YouTube videos.

The Papo Brown Tyrannosaurus rex Model and the Papo Gorgosaurus

Papo Brown standing T. rex and the Papo Gorgosaurus dinosaur models.
The Papo brown T. rex model (introduced in 2012) on the left with the 2019 Papo Gorgosaurus adjacent.  Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

Papo Tyrannosaurs

These two tyrannosaurs make an attractive pair.  The Papo brown T. rex model was introduced in 2012 replacing the “classic” green version of this dinosaur.  The Papo Gorgosaurus is a much more recent addition to the Papo “Les Dinosaures” range.  This figure was introduced in 2019.

With the current COVID-19 difficulties, Everything Dinosaur has been able to put in place a series of contingency measures to help the company to continue operating its mail order business.  For example, making commitments to stock figures earlier than normal and putting in place plans to hold various products in readiness to bring them into the company’s warehouse.  These measures and the other steps that Everything Dinosaur have taken have enabled the company to maintain the availability of a number of product lines, including the popular Papo prehistoric animals.

To view the range of Papo prehistoric animal models and figures available from Everything Dinosaur: Papo Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Animal Models.

5 05, 2020

CollectA Deluxe Woolly Mammoth “Turntable Tuesday”

By |2024-02-19T08:39:25+00:00May 5th, 2020|Categories: Adobe CS5, Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Everything Dinosaur videos, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products, Product Reviews|0 Comments

“Turntable Tuesday” CollectA Deluxe Woolly Mammoth

It’s “Turntable Tuesday” at Everything Dinosaur and time to give another prehistoric animal figure in our extensive range, a spin.  Today, we have selected one of the most underrated models in the CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Life model range – the 1:20 scale Woolly Mammoth.  It is time this fabulous figure of an iconic Ice Age animal got put into the spotlight.

“Turntable Tuesday”

“Turntable Tuesday” – The CollectA Deluxe 1:20 Scale Woolly Mammoth

Video credit: Everything Dinosaur

CollectA Deluxe 1:20 Scale Woolly Mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius)

Lots of prehistoric animal ranges include a Woolly Mammoth figure (M. primigenius).  It seems that as soon as a manufacturer starts to extend a range beyond the Dinosauria, the Woolly Mammoth comes into consideration.  The CollectA 1:20 scale replica was introduced back in 2009 along with the Woolly Mammoth calf, which coincidentally, makes a short appearance in our video.  Interestingly, although no scale declaration was ever made for the calf model, these models were originally given sequential catalogue and production numbers.  They do work very well together in terms of scale.

CollectA Woolly Mammoth Models

CollectA Woolly Mammoth models.
The CollectA Deluxe Woolly Mammoth model in 1:20 scale and the CollectA Prehistoric Life Woolly Mammoth calf. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

A Woolly Mammoth on the Turntable

Our short video showcasing these excellent replicas lasts around one minute fifty seconds.  Using a turntable to display the models we can permit viewers an all-round view of the figure.  We did have to place the adult Mammoth on its back so that we could show the beautifully sculpted teeth in the upper jaw.  Those tusks (upper incisors), are beautifully weathered too.

The Everything Dinosaur Video Highlights Some of the Details on the Ice Age Models

Highlighting details on the CollectA Deluxe Woolly Mammoth model.
The Everything Dinosaur video highlights the details in the upper jaw. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Model Measurements – Are They 1:20 Scale Woolly Mammoth Models?

The CollectA Deluxe adult Woolly Mammoth measures around 20 cm long and that magnificent head is approximately 15 cm off the ground.  Different species were different sizes and as with extant elephants today, the males were much larger than the females.  Scientific measurements based on Mammuthus primigenius suggest an adult body size of around 3.5 metres to 4 metres in length, so this figure is indeed in approximately 1:20 scale.

The CollectA Deluxe Woolly Mammoth Replica

The CollectA Deluxe Woolly Mammoth replica.
CollectA Deluxe Woolly Mammoth replica.

The CollectA Woolly Mammoth Calf

CollectA Woolly Mammoth calf.
CollectA Prehistoric Life Woolly Mammoth calf model.

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: The Everything Dinosaur Website.

The Woolly Mammoth video can be found on Everything Dinosaur’s YouTube channel, please subscribe, you can find the channel here: Everything Dinosaur on YouTube.

To view the CollectA Deluxe range of prehistoric animals: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Life Models.

To view the CollectA Woolly Mammoth calf and the rest of the figures in the Prehistoric Life range: CollectA Prehistoric Life.

3 05, 2020

Preparing for the New Caviramus

By |2024-02-19T07:27:32+00:00May 3rd, 2020|Categories: Adobe CS5, Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur News and Updates, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products|0 Comments

Preparations Underway for the CollectA Caviramus Pterosaur Model

At the end of November last year (2019), Everything Dinosaur revealed that CollectA would be introducing a replica of the bizarre Late Triassic pterosaur Caviramus.  This 1:2 scale model, along with the rest of the remaining new for 2020 CollectA prehistoric animals, have been delayed (coronavirus outbreak), but team members at Everything Dinosaur have still been busy making preparations for this model’s arrival.

Arriving in 2020 (Later on in the Year) The CollectA Supreme Caviramus Pterosaur Model

CollectA Caviramus model with an articulated jaw.
The bizarre Late Triassic pterosaur Caviramus (CollectA Caviramus model).

Caviramus schesaplanensis

Of all the pterosaurs known to science (there are around 130 genera), arguably the most bizarre but poorly known are those from the Late Triassic and into the latter stages of the Early Jurassic (Toarcian stage), that have been tentatively grouped together as “Campylognathoidids”.  Caviramus is one such member, assigned by several authors, although there is very little agreement amongst pterosaur experts how the various associated genera are related to each other, or indeed, how they fit into the wider Pterosauria.

The grouping consists of around half a dozen or so assorted genera, most of which have been found in Europe.  European members include Austriadactylus, Carniadactylus, Eudimorphodon, Campylognathoides, Caviramus and Raeticodactylus.

Named and described in 2006 (Fröbisch and Fröbisch), from a partial lower jaw found on the western slope of the Schesaplana mountain in Switzerland, Caviramus schesaplanensis was soon joined by another species (C. filisurensis), following the scientific description in 2008 of a much more complete skeleton found in contemporaneous deposits.

As if to highlight the complexities of trying to phylogenetically plot these strange flying reptiles, Caviramus filisurensis was placed in its own genus Raeticodactylus when it was described (Rico Stetcher).  However, other researchers challenged this placement and comparisons with the jawbone of C. schesaplanensis led to claims that the two pterosaur fossils represented the same species or at least they were congeneric (belonging to the same genus).

Recent Studies

A more recent study (2014), concluded that these two, closely related pterosaurs should be placed in the Raeticodactylidae family and that Raeticodactylus was the sister genus of Caviramus.  This phylogenetic assessment remains controversial, as indeed does the placement of all the “campylognathoidids” within the Pterosauria.  In our fact sheet that will accompany sales of the CollectA Supreme 1:2 scale Caviramus replica, we hope to provide a little more information about this Triassic flying reptile.

Everything Dinosaur’s Fact Sheet Illustration of Caviramus

Carivramus pterosaur scale drawing.
A scale drawing of the bizarre pterosaur Caviramus (C. schesaplanensis). Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

From the Upper Triassic Kössen Formation

With their complex, multi-cusped teeth, large eyes, down-turned lower jaw tips and proportionately long wing fingers, the “Campylognathoidids” represent one of the earliest radiations of the Pterosauria.  In common with most other early pterosaurs Caviramus was relatively small, with an estimated wingspan of around 1.2 metres, giving it a wingspan roughly comparable to the Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo).  However, what Caviramus ate is entirely unknown.  Wear and scratches observed on teeth along with studies of jaw morphology suggest that these flying reptiles were capable of processing their food in their mouths to some degree – chewing, an anatomic trait unique within the Pterosauria.

What Caviramus ate is very much open to speculation.  It probably was a generalist feeding on plant material, invertebrates, small vertebrates and possibly carrion.  Studies of the potential aerial abilities of Caviramus indicate that it may have flown but relied on gliding to an extent.

Problems with Dating Caviramus schesaplanensis Fossils

The fossilised partial lower jaw assigned to C. schesaplanensis comes from the Kössen Formation.  Its age is uncertain due to problems over accurately dating the strata.  The sediments represent a lagoonal environment that overtime, became a more open marine ecosystem but the absence of any obvious zonal fossils such as ammonites or conodonts makes accurate dating very difficult.  The strata are regarded as Late Norian to Early Rhaetian in age.  Based on this, our team members conclude that Caviramus was taking to the air around 210-206 million years ago.

To read our post in which we introduced the new for 2020 CollectA Supreme Caviramus replica: New for 2020 – CollectA Models (Part 5).

Everything Dinosaur’s short video announcing new for 2020 CollectA figures including Caviramus: A Guide to the New CollectA Models (Part 5).

Our team members hope to post up more information about the new for 2020 CollectA figures including when they might be in stock.

To view Everything Dinosaur’s existing range of CollectA scale models: CollectA Deluxe Replicas.

28 04, 2020

New Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops “Turntable Tuesday”

By |2024-02-18T12:58:27+00:00April 28th, 2020|Categories: Adobe CS5, Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Everything Dinosaur videos, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products, Product Reviews|0 Comments

“Turntable Tuesday” – Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops

It’s “Turntable Tuesday” at Everything Dinosaur and this week we take the Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops for a spin.  This is the second Paleo-Creatures figure that we have featured in this series, following hot on the heels of Moschops comes this beautiful figure of “ornate horned face”.

“Turntable Tuesday” Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops Dinosaur Model Goes for a Spin

Video credit: Everything Dinosaur

Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops Figure

The Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops figure measures around thirteen centimetres in length and it is approximately in 1:38 scale.  This hand-crafted figure is just one of an excellent range of figures all designed and sculpted by the talented Jesús Toledo.  Formally described in 2010, this horned dinosaur lived around 76-74 million years ago (Campanian faunal stage of the Late Cretaceous).  The binomial scientific name is Kosmoceratops richardsoni, the species name honours Scott Richardson, who discovered the first fossils associated with this species in Utah in 2006.  The naming of Kosmoceratops after Scott Richardson was also in recognition for his work in mapping the geology of the “Beehive state”.

The Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops richardsoni Dinosaur Model in 1:38 Scale

Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops figure.
The Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops dinosaur model.  This hand-crafted model is supplied with a data card and its own display place complete with Kosmoceratops tracks.  Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops “Turntable Tuesday”

The aim of Everything Dinosaur’s “turntable Tuesday” videos is to post up once a week, a short video showcasing a prehistoric animal figure on our YouTube channel.  The turntable allows viewers to see the figure in close detail from all angles, it is a 360 degree tour of a model.  The Kosmoceratops figure video lasts around ninety seconds, our objective is to produce a video that lasts between a minute and two and a half minutes in length.  With our own studio, we intend to make more videos including detailed reviews of dinosaur models in the near future.

Going for a Spin – The Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops on Everything Dinosaur’s Turntable

Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops model.
Paleo-Creatures Kosmoceratops figure goes for a spin on “turntable Tuesday”.  Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Everything Dinosaur on YouTube

The Everything Dinosaur YouTube channel provides a myriad of helpful information on prehistoric animals including numerous model reviews and “turntable Tuesday” videos.  It has already attracted thousands of subscribers and clocked up over 1.25 million views.  To view the rest of the “turntable Tuesday” series and all the other videos on the Everything Dinosaur YouTube channel: Everything Dinosaur on YouTube.

We recommend that dinosaur fans and collectors subscribe to Everything Dinosaur on YouTube.

The view the range of prehistoric animal models and figures available from Everything Dinosaur: Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Models.

26 04, 2020

Out and About with the new for 2020 Mojo Fun Brontosaurus

By |2024-02-18T12:44:43+00:00April 26th, 2020|Categories: Adobe CS5, Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products, Product Reviews|0 Comments

New for 2020 Mojo Fun Brontosaurus Model – Out and About with Brontosaurus

Everything Dinosaur is expecting deliveries of Papo prehistoric animals, Safari Ltd figures and CollectA models over the next few days.  All these figures have been put on stand-by, ready for team members to move into our warehouse – all part of our contingency plans put in place prior to the lockdown due to the COVID-19 outbreak.  By implementing good hygiene and ensuring social distancing is observed, our mail order operations can keep going.

The Mojo Fun Brontosaurus Dinosaur Model

However, despite our best efforts and all that planning, the production schedules for many new figures have had to be delayed.  For example, we are still awaiting the arrival of the new for 2020 Mojo Fun prehistoric animal and extinct figures.  We do have some production samples around the office, so we thought we would take advantage of the good weather to photograph one or two of these new models.

The New for 2020 Mojo Fun Brontosaurus Dinosaur Model

Mojo Fun Brontosaurus.
A Mojo Fun Brontosaurus.  This is the new for 2020 Mojo Fun Brontosaurus model. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

A More Muted Colour Scheme

The Mojo Fun Deluxe Brontosaurus has a much more muted colour scheme than the Diplodocus figure that was introduced in 2018.  The skin shows nice texturing and in order to reduce the length of the model as well as to animate the figure, the head and that thick sauropod neck is turned to the side and the tail curved round as if the dinosaur was just about to flick it out to deter a predator.

A Close-up Showing the Detailed Skin Texturing on the Neck of the Mojo Fun Deluxe Brontosaurus

Mojo Fun Brontosaurus dinosaur model.
A close-up view of the Mojo Fun Brontosaurus dinosaur. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Following the extensive review of the Diplodocidae and the resurrection of the Brontosaurus genus, Mojo Fun is the latest manufacturer to introduce a replica of this iconic dinosaur.  A Brontosaurus model has been added recently by CollectA (2018), to their not for scale “Prehistoric Life” range.  It is likely that more Brontosaurus models will be made in the future.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s blog post about the revision of the diplodocids which led to the revival of the Brontosaurus genus: The Return of Brontosaurus.

A Closer View of the Anterior Portion of the Mojo Fun Brontosaurus Model

Mojo Fun Brontosaurus model.
The Mojo Fun Brontosaurus model. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

A Morrison Formation Favourite – Brontosaurus

Out and about with a Mojo Fun Brontosaurus model.
A Mojo Fun Brontosaurus dinosaur model on display. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Mojo Fun Brontosaurus Measurements

Team members have measured the figure.  It is approximately 22 cm long and the head is around 11 cm off the ground.  It is hoped that this new figure and the rest of the new for 2020 Mojo Fun prehistoric animal models will be in stock later on this year.  If we get any additional information with regards to a delivery date we will be sure to post up this news onto our various social media pages.

A Brontosaurus Attacked by Allosaurus (New for 2020 Mojo Fun Allosaurus Dinosaur Model)

Mojo Fun Allosaurus attacks the Mojo Fun Brontosaurus
A Mojo Fun Brontosaurus dinosaur model being attacked by the new for 2020 Mojo Fun Allosaurus figure. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Sixteen New Mojo Fun Prehistoric and Extinct Models

Everything Dinosaur estimates that there are sixteen new Mojo Fun prehistoric animal models for 2020, including a new model of Allosaurus (pictured above).

To view the current range of Mojo prehistoric animals available from Everything Dinosaur: Mojo Fun Prehistoric and Extinct Models and Replicas.

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