Stegosaurus | Description, Size, Plates, & Facts
Stegosaurus is a dinosaur that lived about 150 million years ago in the late Jurassic period. Stegosaurus fossils have been found in western North America and Europe. It was first named and discovered by Othniel Charles Marsh in 1877.
How big was the Stegosaurus?
Stegosaurus was about the size of a bus, 30 feet long and 14 feet tall. It probably weighs about 10,000 pounds! He is most famous for his diamond-shaped patches along his back. These patches can be as large as 2 feet by 2 feet. It also has four spikes on its 2-3 feet long tail, presumably used for self-defense.
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Stegosaurus dinosaur walked on all fours and lowered its head to the ground, while holding its pointed tail in the air. He has a relatively small head and a small brain. He also has small front legs compared to his hind legs, indicating that he is not very fast.
The purpose of the Stegosaurus plates is much debated by scientists (palaeontologists). Some believe they were mainly used for defense against large predatory dinosaurs. Others believe they are intended to intimidate enemies and attract other dinosaurs. However, another theory is that they were used to cool dinosaurs. The extra surface will allow wind and air to cool the dinosaur’s blood.
What did Stegosaurus eat?
Stegosaurus was herbivorous, which means it ate plants. He probably ate plants like moss, ferns, and fruit. It is likely that dinosaurs foraged and grazed to forage in large groups or herds.
Where to see a Stegosaurus on display?
Many museums have an actual model or exhibit of Stegosaurus built from fossils. These include the American Museum of Natural History, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.
Interesting Facts about the Stegosaurus
The name Stegosaurus, means roof lizard or covered lizard, due to the plates on its back.
It’s the Colorado state dinosaur.
Some scientists believe that Stegosaurus may have had a second, larger brain located below its spinal cord.
Because the brain is too small for its large size, many people consider Stegosaurus to be the stupidest dinosaur.
It is one of the most recognizable dinosaurs and can be found in movies and cartoons from Jurassic Park to Bob the Builder.