Utahceratops (Horned Face from Utah)

Basic facts

  • 16 feet (5m) length

  • Late Cretaceous

  • USA

  • Herbivore

Utahceratops is a genus of dinosaur belonging to the family Ceratopsidae. It thrived approximately 76 to 75 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period in what is now North America, specifically Utah. The first fossils of Utahceratops were discovered in 2000. This genus is represented by six specimens, among which are two partial skulls. When combined, these specimens collectively preserve approximately 96% of the skull and 70% of the postcranial skeleton.

Utahceratops was a large-sized dinosaur, measuring about 5 to 6 meters in length and weighing an estimated 2 to 3 tons. It had a sturdy build, with a strong skull adorned with numerous horns and a large bony frill at the back. The frill possessed elaborate ornamentation in the form of fenestrae (openings) and unique patterns. The horns on the skull varied in size and shape, with a prominent nasal horn and smaller brow horns.

Utahceratops likely exhibited both solitary and herd behavior, with individuals coming together for social interactions, mating, and defense against predators. The horns and frill likely played a role in intraspecific combat and display. The robust body and strong limbs allowed Utahceratops to move efficiently through its environment and potentially defend against predators.