Dilophosaurus
Classification:
Dinosauria
Saurischia
Theropoda
Dilophosauridae
Species: D. wetherilli
Pronounciation: dy-LOHF-o-SOR-əs
Length: 7 metres long
Weight: 400 kilogrammes
When it lived: Early Jurassic, 193 million years ago
Where it lived: USA (Arizona)
Official Dilophosaurus model by Callie C.
With their competition wiped out by the end-Triassic mass extinction, the door was open for the dinosaurs to be the new top dogs. As one of the first theropod apex predators, Dilophosaurus was the epitome of this. Already outsizing any terrestrial predator alive today, it was the largest animal in the entire region. Equipped with strong and bone-puncturing jaws, powerful and flexible arms, and stout legs, it was an efficient, fast, and deadly hunter.
Dilophosaurus is also noteworthy for the iconic crest present on the top of its head, which were too brittle for combat, likely being used for as a tool for males to attract females with (a large colorful crest being a sign of strength and good health) or species recognition.
A family of Dilophosaurus will be the main focus of Dinosauria's second episode. This episode will explore several aspects of their lifestyle, especially their growth from hatchlings to adults.