Rare Discovery: Most Complete Dinosaur Found in UK in Nearly a Century

A new dinosaur species, Comptonatus chasei, has been discovered on the Isle of Wight, shedding light on Cretaceous-era dinosaur diversity in England. This significant finding represents a major advancement in understanding prehistoric life, with ongoing research suggesting more discoveries are likely.

The most complete dinosaur specimen found in England in the past century, Comptonatus chasei, is approximately 125 million years old and was unearthed in 2013 by fossil collector Nick Chase. Jeremy Lockwood, a University of Portsmouth PhD student, led the excavation and analysis of the skeleton, determining that it belonged to a new genus and species, named in tribute to Nick.

Comptonatus chasei differs from previously known dinosaurs due to unique features in its skull, teeth, and body. The specimen’s large pubic hip bone, described as the size of a dinner plate, has sparked intrigue among researchers, leading to speculation about the dinosaur’s locomotion and habits.

The discovery highlights the diversity of dinosaurs in southern England during the Early Cretaceous period and contributes to the study of ecosystems in the region. The dinosaur has been added to the collection at the Dinosaur Isle Museum in Sandown, Isle of Wight, showcasing the rich natural heritage of the area.

Overall, the finding of Comptonatus chasei underscores the importance of ongoing research and preservation efforts in uncovering the prehistoric past and providing insights into the evolution of dinosaurs.

How much do you know?

Where was the new dinosaur species Comptonatus chasei discovered?

Isle of Wight

Scotland

North America

Australia

In which era does the discovery of Comptonatus chasei shed light on dinosaur diversity?

Jurassic era

Cretaceous era

Triassic era

Paleogene era

Who led the excavation and analysis of the Comptonatus chasei skeleton?

Nick Chase

Jeremy Lockwood

University of Portsmouth

Dinosaur Isle Museum

What unique feature of Comptonatus chasei has intrigued researchers?

Tail structure

Teeth shape

Pubic hip bone size

Claw structure

Where has the dinosaur specimen Comptonatus chasei been added to a museum collection?

British Museum

Natural History Museum London

Smithsonian Institution

Dinosaur Isle Museum Isle of Wight

What does the finding of Comptonatus chasei underscore the importance of?

Conservation of modern species

Preservation of natural habitats

Ongoing research and preservation efforts

Human evolution studies

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