Ceratosaurus & Stegosaurus by Dinosaur Corporation

Stegosaurus armatus, a well-known ornithischian dinosaur from the groups Thyreophora and Stegosauridae, was the largest and one of the last of its kind. Primarily a herbivore, it fed on low-growing plants like ferns, cycads, and conifers, with debate ongoing about its ability to rear up on hind limbs for higher vegetation. Inhabiting vast flooded areas and forests under warm, moist climates, this heavy-limbed, long-tailed, and short-legged dinosaur walked on all fours, though coordination was challenging due to its length. Its rear legs were twice as long as its front, with hind limbs having three toes and fore limbs five. Possessing a small head with a toothless beak and small cheek teeth, Stegosaurus featured two rows of triangular plates along its back, culminating in a long tail with four spikes. The largest plates could reach over two feet in height and width, with recent findings suggesting they were arranged in alternating rows, potentially serving temperature regulation or display purposes. Additionally, tail spikes were likely defensive weapons, and armor-like scutes on its throat and hips may have served a similar function.

• Late Jurassic Period: 156 - 145 MYA
• Habitat: USA (Colorado, Utah, Wyoming) & Africa (Tanzania)
• Feeding Habits: Carnivorous
• Size: Up to 20ft (6m) in length
• Weight: Approximately 1 US ton