Tyrannosaurus rex walked like a bird on its tiptoes

Published: Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 6:07 pm

T. Rex Likely Moved on its Tiptoes, New Study Suggests

A recent biomechanical study published in Royal Society Open Science challenges the long-held image of *Tyrannosaurus rex* as a flat-footed, lumbering predator. Researchers analyzed multiple well-preserved *T. rex* specimens, examining leg and foot bones, and utilizing equations to estimate speed in extinct animals. The study suggests that the giant dinosaur likely moved on the front part of its feet, in a bird-like, tiptoe-style gait.

The research compared different foot strike patterns, including rear-foot, mid-foot, and distal-foot strike (toe-first landing). The study found that the distal-foot strike model aligned with fossil trackways, which showed the deepest impressions under the toes. This shift in gait significantly impacted speed estimates, with the toe-first model increasing top speed by an average of 20% compared to the rear-foot strike model.

The study emphasizes that *T. rex* likely moved more like a giant ground bird, with shorter strides and quicker step cycles, which could have helped maintain stability and head control. The research also suggests that age and body size may have influenced speed, with younger, smaller tyrannosaurs potentially capable of higher speeds than adults.

While the study doesn't suggest *T. rex* was a sprinting machine, it does nudge the upper picture of performance in a more agile direction. The authors estimate the most realistic speed range for adult *T. rex* to be between 11 to 25 miles per hour. The researchers acknowledge limitations, including the use of two-dimensional skeletal reconstructions and the reliance on equations based on living animals. They advocate for future research to incorporate bird-like foot function with improved reconstructions of musculature, joints, and tail motion.

BNN's Perspective: This study offers a fascinating glimpse into the potential agility of *T. rex*. While the findings are compelling, it's important to remember that this is a model based on available data. Further research and technological advancements will undoubtedly continue to refine our understanding of this iconic predator.

Keywords: Tyrannosaurus rex, T. rex, dinosaur, biomechanics, gait, foot strike, speed, fossil, predator, Royal Society Open Science, bird-like, distal-foot strike, paleontology, evolution, animal movement

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