Hadrosaur

"big lizard"

CRETACEOUS:  115 - 95 million years ago

Hadrosaurs were the most common, varied, and well-adapted ornithopod (bird-hipped) dinosaurs.  The group probably evolved in central Asia and by the Late Cretaceous Period, had spread all over the lands of the northern hemisphere, migrating across a land bridge that existed at that time connecting Asia to North America.  From there, the group moved eastward again to Europe.  Remains of a certain type have even been found in southern Argentina, believed to be from a migration from North America across a volcanic island chain that once existed.

The outward appearance of hadrosaurs varied widely amongst the different species but structurally, they were all the same.  The most obvious common feature was the elongated face ending in a broad, flattened snout.  

The toothless beak of the hadrosaur looked quite similar to the bill of a duck, hence the common nickname of these dinosaurs, "duck-billed dinosaur".

Hadrosaurs were herbivores (plant-eaters) and only had teeth in the cheek area, not the front of the mouth.  The many rows of teeth were perfect for effectively grinding up rough vegetation for easy digestion.

This unique group of dinosaurs grew in sizes over 40 feet and probably weighed over 5 tons!  In-depth studies of a variety of duckbill remains indicate that these were strictly land-based dinosaurs that walked predominantly on all fours but had the ability to stand on their hind legs.

Hadrosaur remains have been found in China, North America, South America (Argentina) and Europe.

Common misspellings: hadrasaur, hadrasore, hadrysaur, hardosaur.

The dinosaur specimens we offer are not limited to what is just shown here.  Please inquire as to any of your specific needs.  

Special thanks to the highly talented artist  TODD MARSHALL for permission to feature his artwork in this section.

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