Where is Scotty the T. rex now?

Dinosaur specimen

If you are seeking information regarding Scotty the T. rex, recent Google searches indicate that this iconic dinosaur, recognized as the largest and oldest Tyrannosaurus rex specimen, is currently displayed at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum's T. rex Discovery Centre in Eastend, Saskatchewan, Canada. Its bones, which took over two decades to excavate carefully, were finally revealed to the public, showcasing a remarkable discovery that has enlightened paleontologists worldwide.

Scotty's Current Exhibition

Scotty, with the catalog number RSM P.8, is widely regarded as the largest Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever found. It was unveiled in the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, with a special exhibit housed in Regina showcasing the latest findings about this formidable beast.

The Discovery Story

Discovered on August 16, Scotty was first unearthed by Robert Gebhardt, a high school principal, who was on a fossil-hunting expedition with paleontologists from the Royal Saskatchewan Museum (RSM). Although Gebhardt came to learn about fossils, his find changed the course of paleontological studies in the region.

Uncovering the Fossils

The excavation, which started in June, was led by RSM’s team and involved years of meticulous work, retrieving Scotty's remains from dense sandstone. The fossils were primarily located in the Frenchman Formation, which provided essential information about the T. rex species.

Significant Findings

Researchers have concluded that Scotty reveals insights into the size and growth patterns of T. rex. This specimen measures approximately 13 meters (43 feet) in length and weighs around 8.8 tonnes (8,800 kg), surpassing the previous record held by Sue, located in Chicago.

Detailed Description of Scotty

Size Matters

Scotty's sheer size has made it an object of extensive study and discussion, particularly its weight and length, which are significantly larger than those of Sue. Key findings suggest that Scotty's leg bones bear the weight that would support such a massive creature, leading to the conclusions about its impressive size.

Comparative Analysis with Sue

T. rex specimens like Scotty and Sue have generated debates among scientists. The recent studies continue to delve into their sizes, with the consensus being that Scotty likely weighs more than Sue. Although some experts caution about the marginal differences in size, Scotty's discoveries continue to open up new avenues for research.

Health and Pathology

Scotty's fossil evidence shows signs of various injuries, suggesting a life of significant challenges. Trichomoniasis, a parasitic disease affecting the jaw, and healed fractures indicate a turbulent existence, much like that of today’s apex predators.

Visiting Scotty

For those interested in experiencing Scotty firsthand, the CN T. rex Gallery at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum offers an immersive experience, including a replica roar of the T. rex and exhibits featuring fossils from the same region. This engaging space is designed to educate visitors on the prehistoric world that Scotty inhabited and the ongoing research surrounding it.

For more information, please visit Dino walk.