#erockrogers

Carnotaurus couple

Quetzalcoatlus was possibly the largest flying creature to ever exist, soaring over North America 68 million years ago. Its name, meaning 'feathered serpent god,' reflects its epic size and otherworldly appearance. On land, it stood as tall as a giraffe, and with a wingspan of up to 40 feet, it rivaled the size of a small airplane in flight. Likely a terrestrial stalker, Quetzalcoatlus hunted small animals and scavenged carcasses along land and waterways, much like modern storks. It walked on all fours, and its powerful forelimb muscles enabled a rapid launch into the air.

Majungasaurus was a medium-sized theropod and the apex predator of Madagascar around 70 million years ago. Its distinctive head featured a rounded horn and thick bone that protected its short snout. Although its arms were nearly nonexistent, this was compensated by its long tail and powerful legs, which helped balance its center of gravity for agile, bipedal running. Equipped with sharp teeth, a muscular neck, and strong jaws, Majungasaurus likely delivered a powerful bite, holding onto its prey until it was subdued.

A baby Leptoceratops lets out a shrill squeal as a sickle claw presses delicately against the back of its neck. Deep in the forest, its mother follows the distant cries of her missing hatchling. As she gets closer, the wailing abruptly stops, the baby has bled out. The bait is gone, but with his prey now within reach, the Dakotaraptor has one final trick. He uses his syrinx, the vocal organ unique to birds, and mimics the cries of the dead hatchling. The calls sound slightly off, but with her baby’s scent lingering in the air, the mother trots forward, right into the trap.

Dakotaraptor feeding her chicks.

Ubirajara was a peculiar, chicken-sized dinosaur that lived in Brazil around 110 million years ago. Its name, meaning 'lord of the spear,' refers to its unique display feathers. These consisted of two stiff, ribbon-like structures extending nearly six inches from each shoulder. Likely used for courtship, these flashy structures may have resembled the extravagant displays of modern birds-of-paradise, playing a central role in mating dances and attracting partners.

frolicking Dilophosaurus

Guidraco was a large pterosaur that dominated the skies over what is now China, around 120 million years ago. Its name translates to "malicious ghost dragon" which perfectly reflects its menacing appearance. It likely soared gracefully like an albatross, occasionally diving into the water to hunt. Its long jaws were filled with distinct teeth, including prominent forward-pointing teeth at the front that would trap slippery prey.