Best Dinosaur Field Guides

by John Deli

 
  Field guides are a superb way to get a detailed outlook of any kind of field. Dinosaur Field Guides present us with a listing or a guidebook of many different types of dinosaur species. These guides are beneficial for dinosaur lovers, and for adults and children interested in finding out more about the kinds of dinosaurs that once existed. Here is a listing of a number of the leading dinosaur field guides out there. *Note: They are not listed in any selected order.

The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs. By Gregory S. Paul. (2010)

This 320 page dinosaur guidebook gives a comprehensive guide to more than 735 dinosaur species. Divided into 2 key aspects, the first focuses on the science of dinosaurs in general; such as evolution, biology, habitat, etc. The second and considerably lengthier component of the book groups species of dinosaurs on a range of characteristics. It includes illustrations of dinosaurs, skeletal and muscular drawings and also maps of bone distribution. This field guide also incorporates latest research. A superb deal for the price and just how much information it contains, there are minimal complaints. Some would prefer there to be additional illustrations, whilst other individuals felt the illustrations in this guide were quite lavish. It ought to be mentioned that this book is pretty large in size (it's measurements are 10.9 x 8.3 x 1.2 inches) so it's not convenient for carrying around to a museum, school, and so forth. Nonetheless, this is still regarded as an very good reference guide that can appeal to all dinosaur fans.

Field Guide to Dinosaurs. By Steve Brusatte. (2009)

This guidebook is filled with over 170 computer generated dinosaur pictures that are large and detailed. It is on account of this that this field guide is recommended for kids ages 9 to 12. The writer, Steve Brusatte, a paleontology researcher and also works in the American Museum of Natural History, is claimed to write in a method that's simple to grasp and holds the reader's interest. The major draw is the large illustrations within this book that is highly exciting to children along with adult dinosaur fans. The size of this field guide (14.2 x 11.3 x 0.7 inches) is both a pro and a con; it is bulky so it is not the most convenient to carry around, having said that, the largeness does make it possible for some of the dinosaur illustrations to be actual size! All in all, this dinosaur field guide is suggested for children but will be well-liked by adults too.

A Field Guide to Dinosaurs: The Essential Handbook for Travelers in the Mesozoic. By Henry Gee. Illustrations by Luis V. Rey. (2003)

This 144 paged guide is regarded to generally be a good field guide for beginners. Divided into pre-historic eras ranging from Triassic to Late Cretaceous, the drawings and illustrations in this guidebook are well-done and interesting. This field guide helps make it clear that this is a work of fiction, meaning that the pictures of dinosaurs are guesses on how they might have looked according to their bone structure. It is suggested for children in grades 9 through 12, and is found to be easily readable for this age group. Some people do believe that the information within this guide is not the most thorough, and tends to be average. However, this book is a great addition to any dinosaur book collection, in addition to a decent beginner book for anyone with a lighter interest in dinosaurs.

Jurassic Park Institue: Dinosaur Field Guide. By Dr. Thomas R. Holtz Jr., and Dr. Michael Brett-Surman. Illustrated by Robert Walters. (2001)

This short guidebook (160 pages) is appropriate for kids that are dinosaur fans. It can be an educational solution to give kids the dino fix they crave. It is recommended for children ages 4 to 8. One particular well-liked characteristic is the comparison of the dinosaurs to the human child size and it also includes plenty of enjoyable facts on the dinosaurs preferred snacks and what movies you can find a specific dinosaur in. Adults can appreciate going through this dinosaur encyclopedia also. However, this book was written in 2001, so it doesn't have the most totally up to date dinosaur species. This book seems most intended for kids but does not deliver the most current information.

So as you can see dinosaur documentaries are not the only method to learn about dinosaurs. Dinosaur field guides act an excellent supplement to dinosaur documentaries.

Spinosaurus The Sailback Carnosaur

by Claudia Mann 

Jurassic Park 3 made Spinosaurus famous: Spinosaur was the ferocious star of the film! But we all know that films take great liberty with the truth, so let's see what paleontologists can tell us about the real Spinosaur.

How Big Is Big?

How huge? Scientist estimate spinosaurus to be 40 to 56 feet or 12 to 17 meters from head to tail. Spinosaurus' body looks a lot like that of T-Rex, but there are a couple of obvious differences. Of course, T-Rex didn't carry that large sail-like fins made of 6-foot spines. And the front arms of the spinosaurus are heavier and longer than T-Rex's arms. Some scientists think this means that spinosaurus used them for walking, while others say these strong front arms could really get a grip on dinner. The head of spinosaur was longer, more narrow, and not as heavily built as that of T-Rex.

What About The Spines?

Whoever named this beast wasn't having the most creative day. Spinosaurus means "spiny lizard." There were large spines extending from the vertebrae along its back. And when I say large, I mean they could grow up to 6 feet long! Most researchers believe that the spines were covered with a membrane of skin that filled in the spaces between the spines, sort of the way webbing fills in the spaces between the "toes" of a duck This made a sail-like fin that could have helped control body heat. Some researchers think that the sail could have been extended or collapsed at least to some extent. Perhaps then the sail could be used get some other dino's attention.The First SpinosaurSpinosaurus was discovered in 1912 by a German paleontologist. Ernst Stromer found the first and most complete specimen in Egypt. Sadly, this specimen met its demise for a second time during the bombing of Munich in WWII. No spinosaurs since Stromer's first find have been as complete.

Spinosaur Teeth

The long narrow snout of spinosaurus contained jaws full of sharply pointed teeth. Unlike the steak knife serrations of T-rex teeth, Spinosaur teeth were smooth and round. Because of the resemblance to the bite of crocodiles, where the upper teeth of the spinosaurus interlock with the lower teeth, scientists think spinosaurus might have had a diet consisting primarily of fish. To add weight to the fish diet theory, acid etched Fish scales have been found in spinosaurs stomachs. While their bodies are well-adapted for meat, their particular variety may have been of the swimming type.

Top 5 Dinosaur Museums in the US for Dino Lovers

by Rob Mabry 

There is certainly room for debate when building the definitive list of US museums for dinosaur lovers. Diversity of species, number of specimens, presentation, architecture, accessibility and interactivity are all factors in the museum experience. Fortunately, the United States offers a rich diversity of dinosaur museums sure to please everyone from the most casual dinosaur fan to the hardened paleontologist. These are the top five picks, plus some honorable mentions, and some tips to make your visit fun, exciting and cheap.

American Museum of Natural History, New York

There is no greater city in the world than New York and any trip to the Big Apple should include a stop at its wonderful American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). This museum has gained added notoriety due to the popular Ben Stiller comedy, "Night At The Museum." However, when it comes to dinosaur exhibits, the AMNH is definitely not kid's stuff. Boasting wonderful diversity of specimens (over 100 on display in their Dinosaur Halls), the exhibits are structured to demonstrate the evolutionary connections between species, offering a different perspective than the more traditional "chornological order" structure most often seen in similar exhibits. Highlights on your trip to the AMNH are the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs where the T-Rex and Apotasaurus can be found and the Hall of Ornithischian Dinosaurs, home to the Stegosaurus and Triceratops. On the IMAX screen, the museum is exhibiting "Dinosaurs Alive!" The 40-minute film follows AMNH paleontologists on an expedition to the Gobi Desert of Mongolia and to Ghost Ranch, New Mexico as they search for dinosaur remains. Fans of this museum note good lighting in the dinosaur halls for snapping quality photos. Detractors balk at the suggested donation of $15 for adults.

Pros: Rich specimen diversity, good lighting for pictures, the iconic T-Rex, Apotasaurus and Triceratops

Cons: Can get very crowded, long lines for tickets

Tips: For big families, the $15 price tag can be a strain but it's only a "suggested donation." Let the ticket agent know you'd like to make a smaller donation.

Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, Washington D.C.

No visit to our nation's capitol is complete without a trip to the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History (NMNH). The nation's oldest dinosaur museum, the diversity of exhibits is on par with the AMNH, though vistors are sometimes disappointed with the poor lighting and sometimes confusing or missing labels and displays. Still there is much to enjoy here, with both Saurishian and Ornithischian dinosaurs being well represented. The vicious Allosaurus is quite popular along with the Triceratops, which was returned to exhibit after a recent restoration. Ths free admission museum is just one of the Smithsonian's many fascinating collections and a "must" for anyone exploring Washington D.C.

Pros: FREE! Other Smithsonian Museums are right nearby

Cons: Poor lighting, expensive cafeteria, crowded

Tips: Parking is a hassle so use the Metro, cafeteria prices are high so pack a lunch and save some cash

Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago

Visting the Windy City? Promising an awe-inspiring journey through 4 billion years of evolution, The Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago offers a wide variety of dinosaur fossils in its Genius Dinosaur Hall along with animated videos, hands-on interactives that tell the story of when dinosaurs ruled the Earth with their "Evolving Planet" exhibit. The McDonald's Fossil Preparation Lab offers a unique glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work of the paleontologist. Star of the show is "Sue" the T-Rex, a nearly complete specimen discovered in South Dakota in the 1990s. Also of note is the rare Cryolophosaurus, the only dinosaur ever discovered in Antarctica.

Pros: Sue the T-Rex, up-to-date "Evolving Planet" exhibit, lots more to see beyond dinosaurs

Cons: Noisy, steep ticket price ($15 for adults)

Tips: Save the rental fee by downloading the audio tour from their website and add to your ipod before you go.

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh PA

The Carnegie Museum of Natuarl History boasts the third largest display of real mounted dinosaurs trailing only the AMNH in New York and the NMNH in Washington D.C. With 19 dinosaurs on display in two halls, the "Dinosaurs in the Time" exhibit boasts a number of holotypes (considered the premier and defining fossil for a given specimen) including Diplodocus canegii, Apatosaurs louisae and Camtosaurus aphanoecetes. Others specimens of note are the Stegosaurus, Allosaurus, and Camptosaurus.

Pros: Recent renovations in 2007 and 2008 offer a more modern 

scientific view of dinosaurs

Cons: High price tag, $15 for adults

Tips: 50% discount for military, museum open until 8 p.m. on Thursday

The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia PA

A thorough collection of fossils and replicas from the Mesozoic era with about 30 species represented, half being full skeletal mounts. Popular attractions include the Big Dig, a hands-on exhibit for would be paleontolgists and the Fossil Prep Labs where visitors can view live demonstrations of fossil preparation. A great stop for those in the Philly area. Kids will especially enjoy the many interactive displays.

Pros: A great diversion for kids who might be burned out on the history of our nation

Cons: Lacks the depth and variety of the premier dinosaur spots

Tips: Look into purchasing a Philadelphia City Pass for one admission to this museum along with trolley use, the aquarium, the Franklin and the Zoo

Looking for something off the beaten path? These dinosaur exhibits and dig spots offer a more up-close-and-personal experience for those who want to get their hands dirty.

Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology, Alberta, Canada

Rivals any of the premier dinosaur museums in the US. This museum located in the Alberta badlands is off on its own, but worth the trek for those with a keen apetite for all things Mesozoic. With guided tours of the badlands, camps for kids and a rich collection of fossils on display, including 40 mounted dinosaur skeletons, this museum is a dinosaur fanatic must.

Wyoming Dinosaur Museum, Thermopolis Wyoming

With 60 mostly late Jurrasic active dig sites in a 500-acre region, this is a dinosaur lover's paradise. The museum offers 200 displays with 20 mounted skeletons in a 12,000 sq ft facility.

Ruth Hall Museum of Paleontology, Abiquiu New Mexico

Home to the Triassic dinosaur, Coelophysis, the New Mexico State Fossil. Located in Ghost Ranch, this site is known in paleontologist cirles for its rich quarries of the Triassic era, 220 million years ago.

Denver Museum of of Nature and Science, Denver Colorado

Regarded for their exhibits on Stegosaurus, Allosaurs and Edmontosaurus - a great family museum.

Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center, Woodland Park Colorado

A great collection from the Late Cretaceous period.

Come back soon

These museums are currently closed for renovation, but will be highlights for any paleontology enthusiast when the re-open.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Los Angeles California

Re-opening in 2011, this museum's Dinosaurs Hall will return better than ever with a world-class collection of Mesozoic fossils.

Dinosaur Monument National Park, Dinosaur CO

While still open, the main visitor center and access to the "fossil wall" are not available right now. Structural damage to the main visitor center has forced a closure. A temporary center is available with limited displays and visitors can hike a short distance to see fossils, but the main attraction is unavailable at this time.

Your Child's bedroom will look like Prehistoric World with the Dinosaur Wall Stickers

by Angela Parker

If you like wall decals and you have a little boy - or a boy of any age for that matter, then you might just love dinosaur wall stickers. These are vinyl wall stickers that are amazing because they come off easily, leave no residue behind and are inexpensive and come in a variety of designs. Dinosaur wall decals are wall decals for kids that can come in either true to life wall graphics that feature several different dinosaurs, or the cute cuddly kind for younger children. 

In any case, your kid will be immediately attracted to these kids wall decals. The nice feature of these removable wall decals is that they are vinyl and they don't need anything extra to stay stuck on your wall. Vinyl wall stickers are an easy choice for moms and dads that are thinking about ways to decorate their child's room.

There is quite a wide variety of Dinosaur wall decals available, and you can find almost anything you want. Also, nearly every boy loves dinos so dinosaur wall stickers with a T-Rex, Stego or other breeds will be a big hit. If your child is a girl, you might want some of the other kinds, such as Disney, that are available.

Wall appliques featuring dinosaurs come in a lot of different varieties of dinos. The Triceratops is one of these breeds, and Triceratops dinosaur wall decals feature the big herbivore in all of its glory with three horns adorning its head. Since the Trike was a vegetarian, the armored frill and horns were probably for defending itself.

The Euoplocephalus is a Dinosaur that you may not have heard of before. This herbivore had armor that covered its entire body, and a spiked tail that they could use in case a meat eating dino decided to get too close. Euoplocephalus dinosaur wall decals make a great educational choice for your kids.

Another herbivore that was able to stay attacks by its hungry meat eating neighbors was the Stegosaurus. The Stego was alive during the Jurassic Period and was around 30 feet long. This dino make a great choice for dinosaur wall decals.

One of the Stego's neighbors during the Jurassic Period was the Apatosaurus. Sometimes this dinosaur is known as the Brontosaurus, but this synonym is now obsolete. This was another herbivore, with an extremely long neck (for reaching high foilage) and a long tail which was used for causing a sharp crack to scare away predators as well as to balance its unnaturally long neck.

Two carnivores that should be in anyone's dinosaur wall decal collection are the Tyrannosaurus and the Velociraptor. The Raptor and T-Rex are both also instantly recognizable, as they were the main source of worry in the movie, Jurassic Park. Both of these dinos were Cretaceous Period dinosaurs

Big T Rex Plush Toys

by Angeline Hope

There is simply no point in trying to determine why children are so attracted to T rex plush. Despite their frightening looks, T rex plush are just one of those soft toys that are adored by many.

Tyrannosaurus rex lived 85 to 65 million years ago during the period called Cretaceous. It was a meat-eating dinosaur that was 40 feet in length, up to 20 feet tall and weighed close to 7 tons. Amazingly, its arms were but a mere three feet long but it did have serrated, cone-shaped teeth that were continually replaced. Several fossils of T rex have been found in the United States, Canada, and East Asia; a foot print was found in New Mexico and fossilized dung has also been discovered.

The National Museum of History, located in Washington, D.C., is part of the Smithsonian Institution and is a popular tourist attraction for its amazing display of dinosaur fossils. In particular, is a life-size recreation of Tyrannosaurus rex that is not to be missed. They also have has a Paleobiology department, which is one of the leading centers for paleontological research found in the world. They have what is considered a world-class collection of 40 to 50 million fossil plants and animals. They also have in the collection more than 1,500 catalogued dinosaur specimens.

In 2001, in Hell Creek, Montana, a significant discovery was made by both The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History along with dinosaur experts from the Museum of the Rockies at Montana State University - two T rex specimens. A partial T rex that was found in Hell Creek went to the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, while a second, more complete Tyrannosaurus rex, went to the Museum of the Rockies. From June 6 to July 16th, the two teams of experts worked tirelessly in torrential rains, hail, 70 per mile and hour winds, and extreme temperature fluctuations while searching for and then preparing the fossil specimens. This included creating plaster jackets which were made to go around the specimens so they could be moved safely from the expedition site.

When first entering "Dinosaur Hall" at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, you can't help but be awe struck by the gigantic fossilized bones of the 40 foot long Tyrannosaurus rex. Just standing next to it and imagining it walking the earth 65 million years ago, is mind-boggling.

Whether or not there is opportunity to visit the wondrous sites at the Smithsonian in Washington, that should not stop you from having a T rex plush. It is after all, a wonderful replication of the enormous animal that became extinct millions of years ago. Despite its fearsome looks and reputation, a T rex plush is a terrific keepsake for anyone that can't get enough of dinosaurs.