Key Information
Hypsilophodon
| Species | Hypsilophodon foxii |
| Diet | Herbivore |
| Length | 4.9 to 6.6 ft |
| Height | 1.5 to 2 ft |
| Weight | Up to 44 lb |
| Timescale | Early Cretaceous |
| Classification | Ornthischia > Neornithischia > Hypsilophodontidae |
Learning Point
- Hypsilophodon was a small, agile herbivorous dinosaur that lived during the Early Cretaceous period. Hailing from England, this bipedal creature was once thought to be an early member of the Ornithopoda group, but recent studies have challenged this classification. Known for its sharp beak and grinding teeth, Hypsilophodon was a swift runner, likely relying on speed to evade predators. Abundant fossil discoveries have provided a detailed picture of this fascinating dinosaur, making it a well-studied and iconic representative of its time.
Project
- Draw a picture of a Hypsilophodon family.
- Overview
- X-Ray
Location
| Confirmed | Isle of Wight, England, United Kingdom |
| Unconfirmed | Romania, Spain |
Fun Facts
- The name Hypsilophodon comes from Greek words meaning “high-crested tooth“, though really it was meant to be “Hypsilophus tooth” as Hypsilophus is the scientific name for the iguana.
- Hypsilophodon was a real speedy! Its long legs and stiff tail made it one of the fastest dinosaurs around.
- Unlike many dinosaurs, Hypsilophodon had cheeks! This helped it chew its plant food properly.
- All the known Hypsilophodon fossils come from an island off the coast of England! Although the island wasn’t an island in the dinosaur times.
- Scientists used to think it was a baby Iguanodon, but it’s actually a completely different dinosaur!
Past Lessons
| 162 | August 19, 2024 | (North America) |