Tyrannosaurus rex

A close relative of Albertosaurus, king of the tyrant lizard Tyrannosaurus rex appeared at the end of the Cretaceous. The largest meat-eater ever to inhabit the earth, with some individuals reaching lengths of more than 12 metres and weighing more than 6.5 tonnes, it is perhaps fitting that it appeared at the very end of the dinosaurs' 150 million year reign.

As with most of the large carnivores, it is questioned whether Tyrannosaurus was a predator or a scavenger. Like most predators of today, it probably assumed both roles; both lions and hyenas will readily scavenge the others' kills. The bulkiness of its body would seem to indicate that it stalked its prey rather than pursuing it; probably it scavenged as well. Either way, it was well suited for feeding on other dinosaurs.

The Museum's specimen was excavated along the Red Deer River north of the Museum.

This document was prepared by Wayne Hortensius, Calgary, Alberta, Canada for the Royal Tyrrell Museum Cooperating Society. All information © 1995 Royal Tyrrell Museum. All Rights Reserved.
Updated: April 8, 1995

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