A limestone quarry in Oxfordshire, UK, has earned the nickname “dinosaur highway” due to the discovery of hundreds of dinosaur footprints dating back to the Middle Jurassic Period, around 166 million years ago. Known as Dewars Farm Quarry, the site offers a rare glimpse into the lives of these prehistoric giants.
A Historic Discovery
In 1997, quarry workers uncovered over 40 dinosaur footprints, some stretching more than 180 meters. Recently, on January 4, researchers from the University of Birmingham and the University of Oxford announced the discovery of over 200 additional footprints at the same site. These findings included both herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaur tracks, revealing complex interactions between different species.
Unveiling a Prehistoric Pathway
The excavation revealed five extensive trackways:
- Four Sauropod Trackways: Likely made by cetiosaurus, long-necked herbivorous dinosaurs reaching up to 18 meters in length.
- One Carnivore Trackway: Belonging to a megalosaurus, a ferocious predator measuring around 9 meters.
One intriguing discovery was the crossing of carnivore and herbivore tracks, suggesting possible interactions between the species. The sauropod footprints varied in size, indicating a herd of adults and juveniles moving together. In one instance, the footprints stop abruptly, possibly showing a dinosaur pausing upon sensing a predator.
Technological Advances
Modern techniques, including drone photography and 3D modeling, enabled the team to document the site in unprecedented detail. Over 20,000 images were captured, helping researchers analyze the footprints’ size, speed, and movement patterns.
A Window into the Past
The site provides an “extraordinary window” into dinosaur behaviors and environments, according to Professor Kirsty Edgar from the University of Birmingham. Detailed footprints show how the muddy lagoon environment deformed as dinosaurs walked through it, offering valuable insights into their daily lives.
Historical Importance of the Megalosaurus
The discovery of megalosaurus tracks holds special significance. This dinosaur was the first ever to be scientifically named and described in 1824 by geologist William Buckland. Nearly two centuries later, researchers continue uncovering new evidence of these ancient creatures.
A National Treasure
Dewars Farm Quarry is recognized as one of the most scientifically important dinosaur track sites globally. The ongoing research ensures this treasure trove of information will remain accessible for generations to come, contributing to a deeper understanding of Earth’s ancient past.
Reference: OX