In 2011, a serendipitous discovery at the Millennium Mine in northern Alberta unearthed a remarkable find – the exquisitely preserved remains of a nodasaurus, a type of ankylosaur. The initial dig exposed fossilized skin adorned with intricate patterns, sparking intrigue among the excavation team.

As they delved deeper, it became evident that they had stumbled upon one of the most pristine nodosaur specimens ever documented.

This nodosaur fossil, resembling a slumbering dragon, captivated researchers with its astonishing lifelike appearance. The five-year, 7,000-hour preparation sponsored by National Geographic shed light on the creature’s demise, suggesting it met its end in or around a river before drifting out to sea and settling into the sediment where the fossilization process commenced.

Described as a “dinosaur mummy” by Don Brinkman, director of preservation and research at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, this nodasaurus stands out for its impeccably preserved armored plates, offering valuable insights into the keratin defenses of these ancient beasts. This discovery has been hailed as a breakthrough by paleontologists, providing a key piece in unraveling the mysteries of nodosaur anatomy.

Dating back 110 million years, this nodasaurus not only represents a new genus and species in Alberta but also presents an opportunity to explore its original coloring. Microscopic analysis revealed traces of red pigment, hinting at a vibrant palette that may have played a role in attracting mates, as suggested by animal coloration expert Jakob Vinther.

This nodasaurus is not the only recent revelation in the realm of ankylosaurs. The Royal Ontario Museum’s discovery of a new species in Montana, nicknamed Zuul, mirrors the nodasaurus in its remarkable preservation of armor plates and skin. These findings challenge traditional views of ankylosaur appearance, offering a glimpse into their formidable defenses and potential mating strategies.

Displayed at the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller, Alberta, the nodasaurus stands as a testament to the fruitful collaboration between extraction industries and paleontologists in uncovering prehistoric treasures. This exhibit underscores the importance of preserving and studying such fossils to deepen our understanding of ancient life forms and the world they inhabited.