Hadrosaurid Dinosaur Bone Fragment
Hadrosauridae gen. et sp. indet. (Possibly Edmontosaurus cf. annectens based on typical regional matrix) • Body fossil; Vertebrate remains; Petrified osteological material
Geological Period
Upper Cretaceous
Estimated Age
66 to 75 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralization with significant iron-oxide replacement, leading to the characteristic reddish-brown coloration.
Condition Assessment
Fair; the specimen is an isolated, weathered fragment with high levels of erosion and lack of diagnostic articular surfaces.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Reptilia, Order: Ornithischia, Family: Hadrosauridae
Morphological Description
Fragmentary limb bone or vertebral process showing distinct cancellous (spongy) internal bone structure. Surface exhibits longitudinal striations and vascular pitting characteristic of dinosaurian cortical bone.
Rock Matrix
Ferruginous sandstone/siltstone matrix; heavily oxidized mudstone indicative of terrestrial fluvial or floodplain depositional environments.
Formation & Location
Likely Hell Creek Formation (USA) or Judith River Group (USA/Canada); common in the Badlands of Montana, Wyoming, or Alberta.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 5-8 cm in length; representing a small fragment of a much larger skeletal element.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $40 USD
Auction Estimate
$20 - $50 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common; isolated fragments such as this ('dinosaur chunks') are frequently found in Late Cretaceous terrestrial lag deposits.
Scientific Significance
Provides evidence of Late Cretaceous herbivorous megafauna distribution; contributes to paleoecological mapping of terrestrial environments prior to the K-Pg extinction event.
Preparation Recommendations
Requires minimal preparation; stabilize with a reversible consolidant like Paraloid B-72 if crumbling occurs; keep in a low-humidity environment to prevent further oxidation.
Notable Features
The specimen displays highly visible trabecular bone structure on the cross-section, which is a key diagnostic feature distinguishing it from ordinary rock.