Tianyulong

dinosaur · China · feathers · small

Teeny tiny dinosaur. Tianyulong was about as long as a large house cat, making it one of the smallest dinosaurs that ever lived. Despite its small size, it was a real dinosaur with all the features that made dinosaurs special.

Covered in fuzz. This dinosaur had feathers or hair-like structures covering its body, which helped keep it warm. Scientists discovered these fuzzy details preserved in the rocks where its fossils were found.

From ancient China. Tianyulong lived in what is now China during the Early Cretaceous period, around 130 million years ago. Its fossil was found in Liaoning Province, which has some of the best-preserved dinosaur remains in the world.

Unusual teeth setup. This dinosaur belonged to a special group called heterodontosaurs that had different types of teeth, unlike most other dinosaurs. It probably used its varied teeth to eat plants and insects.

Fast on two legs. Tianyulong walked on its hind legs and had a long tail that helped it balance while running. Its small size meant it could dash around quickly to escape from predators.