Associated Pair Ankylosaurus Scutes

These associated Ankylosaur scutes were discovered in situ within the fossil matrix, precisely in the articulation shown. Given their immediate proximity and spatial orientation upon recovery, it is highly probable they were still connected by soft tissue or hide prior to burial and subsequent fossilization, offering a rare glimpse into the spatial arrangement of the animal's natural armor.

Size: large- 5.72" L x 3.38" W x 1.45" tall. Small 3.54" L x 2.79" w x 0.93" tall

Species: Ankylosaurus

Age: late cretaceous- 75.3-79 MYA

Location Found: Judith river Formation, Blaine County,Montana,USA

No repair or restoration.

• Scutes: The broader term often used for these armor plates, which were likely covered by a tough outer layer of keratin (the same protein found in fingernails and horns).

• Ossicles: A term occasionally used for the smaller, pebble-like or mosaic pieces filling the gaps between larger plates.

Ankylosaurus was a heavy, tank-like quadrupedal herbivorous dinosaur that lived 70 to 66 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period in western North America. It measured 6 to 8 meters long and weighed 4.8 to 8 tons, featuring a heavily armored body and a massive tail club.