Scientists delving into a Triceratops grave have stumbled upon a poignant revelation about the spiky behemoths, akin to scenes from “Jurassic Park.” Originally thought to live solitary lives, it appears these creatures had a more social existence than previously imagined.
Discovered in Wyoming in 2013, what initially seemed like a solitary Triceratops turned out to be a group of five, huddled together in death. Paleontologist Jimmy de Rooij, leading the excavation, describes the find as raising “all kinds of new questions.”
“Who knew these ancient creatures had such a tight-knit social circle?” quips de Rooij, pondering the newfound complexities of dinosaur behavior. The excavation, spanning over ten years, yielded a treasure trove of 1200 bones and bone fragments, sparking fresh inquiries into Triceratops dynamics.
While the find has piqued scientific curiosity, it also offers a glimpse into the painstaking work of paleontology. “It was a Herculean effort,” notes de Rooij, emphasizing the meticulous process of extraction from the quarry.
With this groundbreaking discovery, de Rooij, hoping to secure a PhD from Utrecht University, anticipates further exploration into the social intricacies of these ancient beasts. As for the Triceratops, their once-hidden camaraderie sheds light on a previously overlooked aspect of dinosaur life, forever altering our perception of these iconic creatures.
