Psittacosaurus Dinosaur
Ceratopsia/Psittacosauridae
The Psittacosaurus
is a Ceratopsian or “horned dinosaur.” Originally
discovered in
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This
particular specimen of Psittacosaurus is believed to
be composed of more than 95% fossilized bone (unlike many museum specimens
which are often casts and may contain only 15-25% of the original fossilized
organism).
Mounted in a life like
running position, the skull, four limbs, and tail section are attached via
metal pins and can easily be removed for closer study.
Measuring approximately
36 inches (91.4 cm) from head to tail, this Psittacosaurus
is a very exceptional specimen purchased from a reputable West Coast
dealer.
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Remains of
approximately eight different species of Psittacosaurus have been found in
various parts of Asia, including archaeological sites in Mongolia, southern
Siberia, northern China, and northern Thailand. One of the more unusual
dinosaurs to have lived during the Cretaceous period the Psittacosaurus
is believed to have exhibited avian like nesting and colony-oriented behavior.
One interesting find in the Lujiatun fossil beds at
the base of the Yixian formation in northeastern
Psittacosaurus’s hindlimbs
are slightly longer than its forelimbs, suggesting that it may have moved
around in an upright position for periods of time. Like most plant eating
vertebrates, Psittacosaurus’s even rows of sharp
serrated teeth were well suited for nipping off and shredding fibrous plant
matter.
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Named for its
beaklike appearance, Psittacosaurus, the “parrot
lizard” (pronounced ‘sih-Tak-oh-saw-rus) is one of
the earliest dinosaurs to show the characteristic beaked face of the Ceratopsian group. This beak, supported by a single
median bone, called the rostral bone, is the
distinguishing feature that separates Ceratopsians
from all other dinosaur groups. Triceratops is probably the most famous of
and best known of Psittacosaurus’s Ceratopsian relatives. Certainly one can see definite
similarities in both beak and skull structure. Definitely a most remarkable
specimen.
Shipping worldwide
and amount will be figured and quoted at cost depending on location. RICHARD GROSS RARE COINS
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