The tyrannosaur, long considered one of the most fearsome predators, has finally revealed its dining habits in a groundbreaking discovery by scientists.
In a new study published in Science Advances, the fossilized stomach contents of a member of the tyrannosaur family provide never-before-seen insights into their diet and ecological role in ancient ecosystems.
The specimen, found in Alberta’s Dinosaur Provincial Park by fossil preparator Darren Tanke, has shed light on the diet of a juvenile Gorgosaurus libratus – a type of tyrannosaurid- and the mysterious remnants found in its stomach.
The study explored the stomach contents which included remains of two small oviraptorosaurs, indicating the young tyrannosaur’s preferred prey. Prior to this find, details of the tyrannosaur diet were largely speculative and based on indirect evidence.
Lindsay Zanno, a paleontology expert, remarked that evidence of dinosaur diet is “frustratingly rare,” underscoring the significance of this discovery.
Gorgosaurus skeleton left view showing location of stomach contents. Credit: Copyrights Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology
Gorgosaurus lived in the late Cretaceous period, approximately 80 million to 66 million years ago. It underwent a significant dietary shift as it transformed from a leggy and slender youth into a massive apex predator. This shift is evident in the remains found within the specimen’s stomach, highlighting the carnivorous habits of this dinosaur.
Further analysis revealed that the juvenile Gorgosaurus consumed two small prey, which were likely devoured within hours or days as separate meals.
Read More rnrn