Here is the ultimate book for dinosaur lovers - a complete identification guide featuring more than 35 dinosaurs, illustrated according to the most recent scientific understanding and written by an acknowledged expert.
A comprehensive introduction explains the evolution of earth's geology and the development of animal and plant life within it, culminating in the Age of Dinosaurs 245 million years ago. It explains dinosaur classification and shows how they developed from the smallest fox-size meat-eater, adapted to move quickly on two legs, to the largest dinosaurs with the greatest body mass and an array of complex armour.
Fascinating anatomical drawings demonstrate the skeletal make up of the different dinosaurs and explain how they functioned, moved and lived. An analysis of fossils provides theories about what dinosaurs ate; fossil footprints explain how they socialized; and the discovery of dinosaur eggs gives an insight into how dinosaurs formed colonies. The different habitats where dinosaurs lived are all depicted, from deserts to lagoons, lakes, mountains, swamps and plains, together with fossil evidence that helps to explain their presence in each site. Finally the role of the dinosaur hunters is explained, with a glimpse at how fossils are excavated, and where the most important fossil sites are in the world.
The main section of the book is an encyclopedia of more than 350 dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures, arranged according to type. Each entry contains a description of the creature's key identifying features, evolutionary adaptations and details of the fossil evidence found. A map shows where in the modern world the relevant fossils have been found, and key details are included such as classification, dimensions, the period of time when the creature lived, and its lifestyle. Each main entry is illustrated with a beautiful and technically accurate full colour watercolour artwork.
This unique volume, with its unprecedented combination of the latest expert research and beautiful visual reconstruction, will be an endless source of pleasure for dinosaur enthusiasts and an essential family reference for school and home study.
About the Author
Dougal Dixon was born in Scotland and later graduated from The University of St Andrews with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1970 and a Master of Science degree in 1972. He began his career as a geological consultant for a publishing company in 1973, nurturing a special interest in fossils and evolution. He is now a full-time writer specializing in earth sciences and has written many children's books and encyclopedia with a special interest in dinosaurs.
