Megalosaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Ceratosauria · Family: Megalosauridae
The fragmentary remains of many carnosaurs have been assigned to Megalosaurus, making it something of a grab-bag classification. The first dinosaur bone on record to be discovered in 1677 in England. The remains of Megalosaurus and Iguanodonwere the first to be recognized by 19 th century scientists as dinosaurs. The two were portrayed in illustrations and in concrete, life-size statues as scaled-up lizards. The statues, first of their kind, still stand inLondon, England. The fragmentary remains of many dinosaurs have been assigned to Megalosaurus.
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Reference background: Natural History Museum, London — Dinosaurs; Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History — Dinosaurs; American Museum of Natural History — Dinosaurs & Fossils. Figures are typical published ranges; taxonomy follows the source era and modern consensus is noted where it differs. See our sources & fact-check policy.
Frequently asked questions
What does Megalosaurus mean?
The name Megalosaurus means “Big Lizard”. It is pronounced MEG-uh-lo-SAWR-us.
When did Megalosaurus live?
Megalosaurus lived during the Middle Jurassic and Early Cretaceous.
Was Megalosaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Megalosaurus was a carnivore.
How big was Megalosaurus?
Megalosaurus was about 26 feet (8 meters) long, around 12 feet (3.7 meters) tall, weighing up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg).
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Megalosauridae family.
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