In a recent study, paleontologist Paul Sereno discussed the discovery of dinosaur mummies in western North America. These fossils provide intricate details of duck-billed dinosaurs, revealing hoofs on these creatures for the first time. The findings, published in the journal Science, offer a comprehensive look at the appearance of these dinosaurs and shed light on how the mummification process occurred.
Duck-billed dinosaurs, also known as Edmontosaurus, were prevalent herbivores during the Cretaceous Period, forming large herds akin to modern-day grazing mammals. The study highlighted the evolution of hoofs in these dinosaurs, resembling structures found in later mammalian species like horses, tapirs, and rhinos.
The mummification process of these dinosaur fossils involved a layer of clay covering the carcasses, preserving their shapes and skin impressions. This unique preservation method, previously thought to occur only in aquatic environments, has provided valuable insights into the anatomy and appearance of these ancient creatures.
Understanding how dinosaur mummies form can aid in discovering more specimens and unraveling additional details about their lives and evolution. Each discovery offers a wealth of information about these fascinating creatures, contributing to a better understanding of prehistoric ecosystems.