Description

Triceratops Humerus Bone mid-section (260406p)

Species: Triceratops horridus

Age: Cretaceous Period, 68 million years old

Location: Montana, USA

Formation of Origin: Hell Creek

One of the most iconic dinosaurs in the world, Triceratops is best known for the three large horns on its head, a trait which is also its namesake, as Triceratops quite literally means “Three-horned Face” in Greek. However, aside from its skull, the humerus is one of the most easily recognizable parts of this animal due to its unique squat and stout structure, which makes it far different from many of the other animals during its day. The bone had to support upwards of 13 tons of weight from the animal, as well as provide enough leverage to help the animal move its head to defend itself from predators like Tyrannosaurus or assist in battles for dominance and mates among other Triceratops. This resulted in a very specialized bone that was both durable and compact.

This piece is the middle section of the bone, meaning it’s missing the connection points on either side, as you can see from the diagram in the picture gallery. The fossil is also encased in its original plaster jacket from the field, making it a fantastic display piece and teaching tool to show how fossils are found and prepared in the field.

Offer includes a Certificate of Authenticity