Skeletal reconstruction and life restoration of Sauropelta (Ankylosauria: Nodosauridae) from the Cretaceous of North America

Abstract

A skeletal reconstruction and life restoration are presented for the Early Cretaceous nodosaurid ankylosaur Sauropelta edwardsi. This composite is based on several partial skeletons having armor preserved in situ from the Lower Cretaceous Cloverly Formation of Wyoming and Montana. Comparison of foot morphology with that of the ichnofossil Tetrapodosaurus borealis, from the Lower Cretaceous Gething Formation of British Columbia, suggests that the footprint is that of Sauropelta. A hypothesis is presented suggesting that most ankylosaurs are found on their backs because of bloating.