Duck-Headed Dinosaur “Mummies” Unearthed in Wyoming Fossil Find
Dinosaur “Mummies” reveal First Evidence of Hooves in Duck-Billed Species
WYOMING – Paleontologists have announced the groundbreaking discovery of preserved hooves on two Edmontosaurus annectens dinosaurs unearthed in Wyoming, offering an unprecedented glimpse into the anatomy of these late-Cretaceous herbivores. The findings, published October 23 in the journal Science, mark the first time hooves have been observed on any dinosaur species.
The specimens, originally discovered in the early 20th century by charles Hazelius Sternberg, were nicknamed “mummies“ due to the exceptional preservation of skin patterns in the surrounding sediment. Edmontosaurus annectens roamed the Earth approximately 66 million years ago, shortly before the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. These duck-billed dinosaurs could grow to be 12 meters long and weigh up to 7 tons.
A team led by Paul Sereno of the university of Chicago revisited the Wyoming site, uncovering additional specimens exhibiting preserved integuments – including skin, fleshy crests, and now, hooves. Researchers describe the fossilization process as akin to a “mummification” of soft tissues.
Analysis suggests the adult and juvenile Edmontosaurus died during a period of severe drought, leading to rapid desiccation and the loss of muscles and internal organs, leaving behind primarily skin and bone. A subsequent catastrophic flood then buried the remains in mud and mineral-rich debris,contributing to their remarkable preservation.