Daspletosaurus torosus

Of the seven known specimens of Daspletosaurus torosus, three are housed in Nature's collections, including the most complete specimen. Found by Sternberg and identified by Russell, its skull and skeleton comprise the holotype specimen. (A "type" is the individual upon which identifications of the species are based). The skeleton was completed for display with bones and cast replicas from other individuals. This kind of specimen, comprising bones from more than one individual, is known as a composite.

For many years, this Daspletosaurus torosus specimen has been a feature attraction at the Canadian Museum of Nature. In 1973 the specimen was mounted for exhibition in a striding posture. So that it would fit into Nature's new Talisman Energy Fossil Gallery, which opened in 2006, the posture was slightly altered to raise the head and tail.

The gallery also features two life-sized, fleshed-out Daspletosaurus torosus in a re-creation of an intense moment from the Late Cretaceous Period. The scene presents the two toothy carnivores in a moment of confrontation with a group of chasmosaurs (Vagaceratops irvinensis—read their Amazing Story), while a group of three small theropods known as Troodon formosus look on. This is one exhibition you won't want to miss!

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