First-ever 'mummified' and hoofed dinosaur discovered in Wyoming badlands

Published: Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 1:49 pm

Rare Dinosaur "Mummies" Reveal Hoofed Reptiles

Scientists have announced the discovery of two exceptionally preserved dinosaur fossils in Wyoming, offering unprecedented insights into the biology of duck-billed dinosaurs. These fossils, dating back 66 million years, are the first examples of hoofed reptiles ever found. The study, published in the journal *Science*, details the findings of the "mummified" remains of *Edmontosaurus annectens*, a type of duck-billed dinosaur.

The fossils, though not true mummies with original tissues intact, exhibit remarkable preservation, including skin, spikes, and hooves. Researchers were able to reconstruct the dinosaurs' appearance and characteristics using various imaging techniques, such as X-rays and micro-CT scans. The team also analyzed the surrounding clay and studied fossilized footprints to understand the dinosaurs' movement and preservation process.

The two specimens, nicknamed "Ed Jr." and "Ed Sr.", represent a late juvenile and an early adult, respectively. The dinosaurs are believed to have perished during a drought, followed by a flash flood that quickly covered their bodies. This process, combined with static electricity and microorganisms, led to the formation of a clay template around the remains, which later fossilized.

The findings confirm that duck-billed dinosaurs possessed hooves and had a fleshy crest along their neck and trunk, transitioning into spikes at the tail. The dinosaurs also had small, pebble-like scales on their lower bodies and tails. These discoveries provide valuable information about the end of the Cretaceous period, when these dinosaurs lived alongside other giants like *Tyrannosaurus rex* and *Triceratops*, before the asteroid impact that led to their extinction.

BNN's Perspective:

The discovery of these "mummified" dinosaurs is a significant advancement in paleontology. The level of detail preserved in these fossils offers a unique opportunity to understand the biology and evolution of these ancient creatures. While the scientific community will undoubtedly benefit from this research, it also serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the dramatic events that have shaped our planet's history.

Keywords: dinosaur mummies, Edmontosaurus annectens, hoofed reptiles, fossils, paleontology, Wyoming, duck-billed dinosaurs, Cretaceous period, extinction, science, research, hooves, spikes, skin, preservation

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