Overview
Ankylosaurus was a living tank. Covered head-to-tail in thick bony plates called osteoderms, reinforced by spikes along its flanks, and armed with a massive bony tail club, it was one of the most heavily armoured animals ever to live on land. Even its eyelids were protected by bony plates. When threatened, it would likely crouch low to the ground, making itself nearly impossible to flip.
Key fact
Its tail club could swing with enough force to shatter bone — even the leg bones of a T. Rex.
Did you know?
- The tail club could weigh up to 45 kg and swing at speeds that could fracture bone.
- Even its eyelids were armoured — tiny bony plates covered every vulnerable point.
- Remarkably, it co-existed with T. Rex in the Hell Creek ecosystem.
- Nasal passages were complex, possibly for warming/humidifying inhaled air or vocalization.