Corythosaurus ‭(‬Helmet lizard‭)

Corythosaurus is a dinosaur that lived approximately 77-75 million years ago during the late Cretaceous period in what is now North America. The name “Corythosaurus” means “helmet lizard”, referring to the large, bony crest on its head that was shaped like a Corinthian helmet. This crest was probably used for display purposes, to attract mates or intimidate rivals.

Corythosaurus was a herbivorous dinosaur that measured about 30 feet in length and weighed around 4-5 tons. It had a long, narrow snout with hundreds of small, sharp teeth that were used to chew tough vegetation. The dinosaur had a short, muscular neck and a sturdy body that supported its weight. Its limbs were relatively short and stout, with hoof-like feet that allowed it to move quickly on land.

Corythosaurus is one of the best-known lambeosaurine dinosaurs, a group of hadrosaurid dinosaurs that are characterized by their crests. The crest was made up of a bony core covered in keratin, the same substance that makes up our hair and nails. The shape and size of the crest varied among lambeosaurine species, and some species had crests that were much more elaborate than those of Corythosaurus.

Corythosaurus is known from several well-preserved skeletons, including several complete skeletons that have been found in Canada. These fossils have provided valuable insights into the anatomy, biology, and behavior of this dinosaur.

In conclusion, Corythosaurus was a fascinating dinosaur that lived during the late Cretaceous period. With its unique crest and herbivorous diet, it played an important role in the ecosystem of its time. Today, it remains one of the best-known lambeosaurine dinosaurs and a popular subject of study among paleontologists.