Exceptional Edmontosaurus Ungual Claw/Hoof

Absolutely no repair or restoration on this highly detailed and perfectly preserved ungual.   

The Edmontosaurus, a notable hadrosaurid (duck-billed) dinosaur from the Late Cretaceous period, is a significant part of the Hell Creek Formation's paleontological record in South Dakota. This formation, dating back approximately 66 to 68 million years ago, is renowned for its rich and diverse array of fossils, providing a window into the world just before the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event.

Physical Characteristics: Edmontosaurus was a large, herbivorous dinosaur, known for its distinctive duck-billed head. It could grow up to about 40 feet in length, making it one of the largest hadrosaurid species. This dinosaur walked both on two legs (bipedally) and on all fours (quadrupedally) and had a broad, flat beak ideal for cropping vegetation. Its body was heavy-set, with a long, horizontal tail and strong, muscular limbs.

Fossils in the Hell Creek Formation: The Hell Creek Formation, extending through parts of South Dakota, Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming, has been a crucial site for understanding the Late Cretaceous in North America. Edmontosaurus fossils are among the most commonly found vertebrate remains in this formation, indicating their prominent role in the ecosystem.

In South Dakota, the remains of Edmontosaurus, including nearly complete skeletons and well-preserved skin impressions, have provided an exceptional view into the anatomy, behavior, and environment of this hadrosaurid. These fossils have shown that Edmontosaurus was a key herbivore in its ecosystem, likely living in herds and playing a significant role in the food dynamics of the region.

Edmontosaurus sp.

Cretaceous

South Dakota

Hell Creek

Measures 2.4" long.