Long before humans walked the Earth, Canada was home to some of the most fascinating creatures ever to exist. Massive predators, armored giants, and herds of plant eaters roamed the ancient landscapes where modern cities now stand. Fossils discovered across the country tell the incredible story of these prehistoric residents.
This article is based on current paleontological research and fossil evidence. Scientific understanding of dinosaurs continues to evolve as new discoveries are made.
1. Albertosaurus
Picture a fearsome hunter prowling through ancient Alberta forests, smaller than T. rex but equally deadly. Albertosaurus was a powerful carnivore with razor sharp teeth and strong legs built for speed.
Scientists have found multiple skeletons together, suggesting these predators might have hunted in packs. This teamwork would have made them incredibly dangerous to any prey in their territory, dominating the Late Cretaceous landscape.
2. Edmontosaurus
Imagine herds of these duck billed giants migrating across prehistoric plains like modern day bison once did. Edmontosaurus grew up to 13 metres long and munched on tough plants with thousands of tiny teeth packed into their jaws.
Their fossils are among the most common found in Canada. One remarkable specimen even preserved skin impressions, giving researchers a rare glimpse of what these creatures actually looked like in life.
3. Centrosaurus
With a single long horn pointing forward from its nose and a decorative frill adorned with smaller horns, Centrosaurus cut an impressive figure. These herbivores roamed in massive herds that might have numbered in the thousands.
One famous bone bed in Dinosaur Provincial Park contains remains of hundreds of Centrosaurus, possibly victims of a river crossing disaster. Their fossils provide valuable clues about dinosaur social behaviour and herd dynamics.
4. Chasmosaurus
Sporting one of the largest frills relative to body size of any ceratopsian, Chasmosaurus looked like it was wearing a massive shield on its head. The frill had large openings that reduced weight while maintaining structural strength.
Brightly coloured patterns might have decorated these frills, used for attracting mates or intimidating rivals. Fossils show considerable variation between individuals, suggesting these displays played important roles in their social lives and mating rituals.
