All about dinosaurs, fossils and prehistoric animals by Everything Dinosaur team members.
26 11, 2017

JurassicCollectables Reviews the Mojo Fun Brachiosaurus

By |2023-08-26T08:32:09+01:00November 26th, 2017|Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Everything Dinosaur videos, Main Page, Product Reviews|1 Comment

A Video Review of the Mojo Fun Brachiosaurus Dinosaur Model

JurassicCollectables have produced another fascinating video review of a dinosaur model.  This time, it is the Mojo Fun Brachiosaurus model that is put into the spotlight.

Mojo Fun was formed in 2009 with the objective of creating enjoyable and accurate model figures.  The “Prehistoric & Extinct” range contains a wide range of dinosaurs, prehistoric animals and recently extinct creatures.  This model range helps to highlight the link between extinctions of the past and the plight of many animals today and it includes replicas of animals such as the Tasmanian Tiger and the Quagga, animals that largely due to the actions of our own species, have become extinct.

The JurassicCollectables Video Review of the Mojo Fun Brachiosaurus Model

Video credit: JurassicCollectables

The Mojo Fun Brachiosaurus Dinosaur Figure

In this short video review, the narrator compares the Mojo Fun Brachiosaurus with the brachiosaurids seen in the original “Jurassic Park” film, released in 1993.  The model is described as being “desk top size”, it is an ideal size for creative, imaginative play, yet retains enough detail to make it the target of model collectors.

Various features of the model are highlighted.  The skin texture is commented upon as is the paintwork around the eye, the use of shiny, glossy paint for the eye is praised.  The model represents a traditional view of a macronarian sauropod and we particularly appreciated the comments about the skin creases that have been incorporated into the model.

The Mojo Fun Large Brachiosaurus Dinosaur Model

Mojo Fun large Brachiosaurus dinosaur model.
The Mojo Fun Large Brachiosaurus dinosaur model.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Reference to a Deleted Scene in “Jurassic Park”

“Off-colour Alan” provides a useful scale reference and the narrator comments that this figure resembles the Brachiosaurs that were to be included in a scene featuring these dinosaurs that was left on the cutting room floor when it came to piecing together the original “Jurassic Park” movie.  The Mojo Fun dinosaurs do seem to have been heavily influenced by the CGI dinosaurs from the “Jurassic Park” franchise and this makes them ideal for film fans who are trying to re-create mini-scenes from their favourite movie.

To view the “Prehistoric & Extinct” Mojo Fun model range available from Everything Dinosaur: Mojo Fun Prehistoric & Extinct Models.

Measuring Dinosaur Models

One of the features of a video review by JurassicCollectables is the measuring of the model.  Providing the “vital statistics” of a brachiosaur might be quite a tricky business, but JurassicCollectables cope admirably and providing a size guide helps model collectors to get a better idea of the scale of any figure.  It was also great to see the recently reviewed, new for 2017 Mojo Fun Hunting T. rex model also included in the video review.  It too, provides a helpful guide to scale and size.

For an article that features the recent review of the Mojo Fun red Hunting Tyrannosaurus rexJurassicCollectables Reviews the Mojo Fun Red Hunting T. rex.

Mojo Fun has produced a number of dinosaur models, this range is gaining a very good reputation amongst discerning figure collectors and it is great to see such a well-shot and informative video review of the Mojo Fun Brachiosaurus.

Everything Dinosaur recommends that readers visit the YouTube channel of JurassicCollectables.  This channel is jam-packed with informative videos all with a dinosaur/prehistoric animal theme and we strongly recommend subscribing to this channel.  Visit: JurassicCollectables Videos on YouTube.

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

25 11, 2017

Apatosaurus Scale Drawing

By |2023-08-26T06:58:51+01:00November 25th, 2017|Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products|0 Comments

A Scale Drawing of Apatosaurus ajax

Further to a number or emails that we have received in recent days, we have posted up a scale drawing of Apatosaurus, specifically Apatosaurus ajax, the first species of Apatosaurus to be named and described by the American palaeontologist Othniel Charles Marsh (1877).

Everything Dinosaur’s Scale Drawing of Apatosaurus (A. ajax)

Apatosaurus scale drawing.
Scale drawing of Apatosaurus (A. ajax).

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Dinosaur model fans will recognise the fact that we have based our illustration on the highly popular Papo Young Apatosaurus dinosaur model that was added to the Papo “Dinosaures” range in 2015.  2015 was a special year for fans of diplodocids, as, following a systematic review, the genus Brontosaurus was resurrected.  The Papo model has certainly proved to be a big hit amongst collectors and dinosaur fans.

From the Western United States

The first Apatosaurus fossils to be discovered were found close to the town of Morrison in Colorado (USA).  Subsequently, fossil material assigned to the Apatosaurus genus has been found in Wyoming and Utah.  Apatosaurus was one of the so-called “mega-herbivores” of the Upper Jurassic of western North America.  A number of sauropod fossils are associated with the Upper Jurassic sediments in this region, including Diplodocus, Brachiosaurus, Barosaurus, Haplocanthosaurus and Camarasaurus.  Several different families of sauropod have been identified and as a result, many palaeontologists regard the Morrison Formation fossil material as the high watermark for Jurassic Sauropoda diversity.

The Papo Young Apatosaurus Dinosaur Model

Papo Young Apatosaurus dinosaur model.
Available from Everything Dinosaur.

To view the Papo range of dinosaur and prehisoric animal figures: Papo Dinosaur Models.

How Big was Apatosaurus ajax?

Everything Dinosaur team members estimate that Apatosaurus ajax grew to around 25 metres in length and would have measured between 3 and 4.6 metres high at the hips.  Mass estimates indicate a body weight of around 30 tonnes.  Size estimates do vary, for example acclaimed dinosaur expert and author Gregory S. Paul states that Apatosaurus ajax was around 23 metres long and considerably lighter at approximately 20 tonnes.

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Visit Everything Dinosaur.

24 11, 2017

New CollectA Models 2018 (Part 4 of 4)

By |2023-08-25T17:16:09+01:00November 24th, 2017|Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products|1 Comment

New CollectA Models 2018 (Part 4 of 4)

Today, Everything Dinosaur reveals the last of the new for 2018 CollectA prehistoric animal models and they are all dinosaurs.  With the reassessment of the diplodocids back in 2015, the genus name Brontosaurus was resurrected and “thunder lizard” comes back with a bang with the introduction of a Brontosaurus model into the CollectA Prehistoric Life model range.

The New for 2018 Brontosaurus Model from CollectA

CollectA Brontosaurus replica.
The CollectA Brontosaurus dinosaur model.

CollectA Prehistoric Animal Models

Eagle-eyed collectors will note that the whip-like tail has been retained but there are rows of prominent scales depicted on this finely detailed figure.  This is a very up-to-date replica of a dinosaur first named and described back in 1879.  Our congratulations to CollectA, they have excelled themselves in creating a model of Brontosaurus excelsus.

Commenting on the introduction of this extra-large dinosaur model, designer Anthony Beeson stated:

“In celebration of the recent return to something like respectability for Brontosaurus, that well loved sauropod of our childhoods, I thought it high time that a toy company brought out a model which I believe is the first modern one of the species.  I have given him dermal spines.  There is no way of knowing if the tail spines, where present on sauropods, formed one central row or diverged in two rows rather like those found on crocodiles.  I have chosen the latter position, which I believe has not been tried before on a toy.”

To view the existing prehistoric animals in the CollectA Prehistoric Life model range: CollectA Prehistoric Life.

A Roaring Feathered Tyrannosaurus rex

Next up, is a wonderful CollectA Deluxe roaring T. rex figure.  A fine accompaniment to the 1:40 scale feathered T. rex that was introduced into the Deluxe range in late 2015, just a few weeks after the scientific paper that led to the re-establishment of Brontosaurus.

This dinosaur has an articulated lower jaw and will prove popular, no doubt, with those model collectors who prefer their dinosaur figures to be provided without a base.  The replica has fewer feathers than shown previously on other CollectA tyrannosaurid models.  This version of an adult Tyrannosaurus rex roaring incorporates the latest ideas about adult dinosaurs having less plumage than previously imagined, after all, when you weigh in excess of seven tonnes, retaining body heat is much less of a problem!

The CollectA 1:40 Scale Deluxe Feathered Tyrannosaurus rex Dinosaur Model

CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale roaring T. rex.
CollectA roaring feathered T. rex dinosaur model.

CollectA Deluxe Mapusaurus Dinosaur Model

The last of the new for 2018 model introductions from CollectA is another giant, predatory dinosaur, although one not closely related to the Tyrannosauridae and a dinosaur that lived more than thirty million years before T. rex evolved.  Mapusaurus was a member of the Carcharodontosauridae and it was closely related to another South American giant Giganotosaurus.  Anthony Beeson explained to Everything Dinosaur, that this Deluxe model had been given a different colour scheme from the other Mapusaurus figure made by CollectA, this new colour scheme had been requested by dinosaur model fans.

The CollectA Deluxe Mapusaurus Dinosaur Model

CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Mapusaurus dinosaur model.
CollectA Deluxe Mapusaurus dinosaur model.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

This beautifully proportioned Mapusaurus (M. roseae) comes complete with an articulated jaw and it is great to see more large theropods added to the CollectA Deluxe range, joining the likes of Neovenator, Acrocanthosaurus, Torvosaurus and Carcharodontosaurus.

To see the range of CollectA Deluxe scale prehistoric animals: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Life.

New for 2018 CollectA Prehistoric Animal Models

The new for 2018 Mapusaurus figure sports a fringe of brightly coloured large scales running along the underside of the lower jaw.  This feature on the model has been inspired by the dewlap – a flap of skin that hangs down from the jaw and neck, a feature found in many modern lizards, for example.

Anthony Beeson commented:

“I tried an iguana type run of hanging scales under his throat for the new Mapusaurus for a change and to make him different from other interpretations of theropods.”

The dewlap of iguanas has a number of functions and in males the dewlap is often larger and more prominent than in females.  The fringe of scales play an important role in signalling and communication between individuals.  It is likely that many of the Dinosauria had similar features too and these played an important part in visual communication.

CollectA Model Measurements

Here are the all-important model measurements:

CollectA Brontosaurus (classified as extra large, like the recently introduced Basilosaurus) – length a fraction under 30.5 cm long with a height of just over 10.5 cm (release date mid 2018)

The CollectA Deluxe Roaring Tyrannosaurus rex – length just over 34 cm long with a maximum height of just under 16.5 cm (release date mid 2018)

CollectA Deluxe Mapusaurus – length 32 cm long with a height of 12.5 cm (available quarter 1 2018)

As for when these models will be available, we expect them to be available from Everything Dinosaur around the middle of next year, could be earlier, could be later, we will update readers when we have more information.

For an article that provides an update on the Brontosaurus genus and provides information on the reassessment of the diplodocids: The Return of Brontosaurus.

Previous New for 2018 CollectA Model Posts

All in one location, here are links to the three other blog posts that provide information on new prehistoric animal models from CollectA in 2018.

New for 2018 CollectA models (part 1): New CollectA Prehistoric Life (Part 1).

The New for 2018 CollectA models (part 2): New CollectA Prehistoric Life (Part 2).

New for 2018 CollectA models (part 3): New CollectA Prehistoric Life (Part 3).

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

23 11, 2017

Scaling the Heights of Feather Evolution

By |2023-08-25T17:04:42+01:00November 23rd, 2017|Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal News Stories, Dinosaur Fans, Main Page, Palaeontological articles|0 Comments

How Reptilian Scales Became Feathers

Birds and alligators might look very different, but they are related, belonging to the Archosauria clade, that diverse and extensive group of diapsids that dominated life on Earth during the Mesozoic. There are a number of groups of reptiles that are more closely related to birds than alligators, for instance there is the Dinosauria.  At least dinosaurs and birds belong to the same sub-clade of the archosaurs (the Avemetatarsalia), whereas, in contrast, alligators and their crocodilian cousins are placed in the other major sub-clade of the Archosaurs – the Crurotarsi.

A team of scientists based at the University of Southern California have shed light on the evolutionary process that led to the development of feathers from reptilian scales.  The manipulation of genes in embryonic alligator skin and developing chicks has enabled the researchers to replicate the evolutionary process that led to the development of primitive feathers within members of the Archosauria.

Numerous Feathered Dinosaur Have Been Described – But How Did Feathers Evolve?

Huanansaurus dinosaur illustrated.
A new feathered dinosaur from China, but how did feathers evolve from the scales of reptiles?

Picture credit: Chuang Zhao

Genetic Research Maps the Transition from Scaly Skin to Filamentous Feathers

Most scientists believe that feathers evolved primarily for insulation or display and that powered flight was secondary.

Over the last two decades or so, there have been remarkable dinosaur fossil discoveries, mainly from the Cretaceous deposits in Liaoning Province (north-eastern China), that have revealed a myriad of different types of feathered dinosaur, but the mechanism for feather evolution was poorly understood.  For example, many different types of feather-like structures have been identified in the fossil record, the famous Archaeopteryx (A. lithographica) from the Upper Jurassic limestone deposits of Solnhofen, Germany, has asymmetrical flight feathers, very similar to those found in living birds.  These feathers are more complex than those seen in non-avian, non-volant dinosaurs of the Jehol Biota, that lived some 30 million years after Archaeopteryx was flying around.

Archaeopteryx Possessed Both Asymmetrical Flight Feathers and Symmetrical Feathers

Feather preservation on Archaeopteryx.
Excellent feather preservation.  Asymmetrical feathers (flight feathers on the wings), whilst the hind limbs of Archaeopteryx had symmetrical feathers that probably played very little role in powered flight.

Picture credit: Helmut Tischlinger with additional labelling by Everything Dinosaur

What are Feathers and Reptile Scales Made Of?

The feathers of birds and the scales of reptiles are essentially, made of the same protein – keratin.  However, there are subtle differences in the composition of the keratin that makes up feathers and scales.  It has been known for more than ten years, that the type of keratin that forms feathers is present in embryonic alligator scales.

This form of feather-forming keratin, is suppressed by the expression of genetic information during the embryological development of the alligator, and as a result, as far as we at Everything Dinosaur know, the form of keratin that leads to feathers has not been detected within the dermal scales of adult crocodilians.  The presence of this homologous keratin in both chicks and alligators suggests that this trait was inherited from a common ancestor, a member of the archosaur clade (Archosauriformes), that existed prior to the evolution of the two basic types of archosaur based on their ankle bones (Avemetatarsalia and the Crurotarsi).

An Evolutionary Heritage Embedded in the DNA of Living Archosauria Clade Members

A team of scientists, led by researchers from the University of Southern California have started to unravel the genetic mechanisms that dictate how the outer skin and related tissues of living archosaurs is formed.  They have been able to focus in on the variety of genes that are involved in scale and feather development.  The scientific paper detailing this research has been published in the academic journal “Molecular Biology and Evolution”.

Commenting on this new study, corresponding author for the paper, Dr Cheng-Ming Choung (Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California), stated:

“We now have a potential molecular explanation for these hypothesised missing links.  Our analyses led to the identification of five morpho-regulatory modules that are essential for modern feather formation.  We propose that these modules may originally evolve as different strategies for better adaptation.  Eventually, the integrative combination of five morpho-regulatory modules achieves the highly successful feather architecture today, allows the Aves class to claim most of the open sky as their ecological niche.”

Mapping the Genes of Developing Embryos

In this study, the scientists first mapped the genes of developing chicks and embryonic alligators to identify the differences in gene expression between the two archosaurs and to pin-point the key genes involved in the formation of feathers or scales.  Once this phase of the research had been concluded, the team then placed the genes associated with feather development in chicks into alligator eggs to see if the alligator genes for scales could be overridden by switching on the chicken feather genes.

Highly-magnified Thin Slice Through an Alligator Scale Showing Filamentous Development

Growing feathers in embryonic alligator skin cells.
Normal embryonic alligator scales (left) compared with the elongated feather-like appendage following genetic manipulation of the alligator scales (right).

Picture credit: University of Southern California

In addition, the gene replacement led to the identification of several intermediate types of shape from scales to more complex forms of filamentous feathers.  Some of the shapes identified resemble the filamentous appendages associated with feathered dinosaur fossils, whilst other shapes formed have similar characteristics to those found in the feathers of modern birds.  This research has provided a further insight into how a new organ might evolve and has significantly increased the list of genes and molecules known to influence feather development.  It has also highlighted the growing role of developmental biology and genetic mapping when it comes to interpreting the fossil record.

The scientific paper: “Multiple Regulatory Modules are Required for Scale-to-Feather Conversion” by Ping Wu Jie Yan Yung-Chih Lai Chen Siang Ng Ang Li Xueyuan Jiang Ruth Elsey Randall Widelitz Ruchi Bajpai Wen-Hsiung Li Cheng-Ming Chuong and published in the journal of Molecular Biology and Evolution.

For an article on a recently described feathered, terrestrial dinosaur: Silky Dinosaur Ruffles Feathers.

To read a recent article on the discovery of a troodontid dinosaur with pennaceous feathers: Chinese Dinosaur with Pennaceous Feathers.

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

22 11, 2017

Dinosaur Fan’s Amazing Dinosaur Diorama

By |2023-08-25T16:56:36+01:00November 22nd, 2017|Dinosaur Fans, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products|1 Comment

Prehistoric Landscape with Special Effects

Around four years ago, Everything Dinosaur was contacted by customer requesting advice on suitable models to help populate a prehistoric landscape that was being constructed.  Dad Paul, was keen to acquire a number of prehistoric animal figures that worked well together in terms of approximate scaling, so that his son, Luke, could learn about the sizes of different dinosaurs through his creative play.  At the time, some pictures of the finished dinosaur diorama were sent through to us, however, they were lost in cyberspace and we never got to see the fruits of Paul’s labour.

Prehistoric Animal Figures in a Prehistoric Landscape

Recently, we were contacted again, Paul is about to embark on a second prehistoric landscape project, this time for his youngest son Raef.  Once again, Everything Dinosaur was able to provide advice about suitable models. Paul wanted to add a seascape, so further assistance was required, but this time the focus was on marine reptiles.  He very kindly sent over pictures of his original diorama, complete with working volcano and other amazing special effects.

An Overview of the Dinosaur Diorama Complete with an Active Volcano

A dinosaur and prehistoric animal landscape.
An overview of the superb dinosaur and prehistoric animal landscape.

Picture credit: Paul

We congratulate Paul for his superb dinosaur diorama.

A Playscape for Familiar Favourites

The pictures sent into Everything Dinosaur include some of the wonderful models that were around four years ago.  Sadly, a number of these figures have been retired and are no longer available.  It is great to see favourites from Schleich and CollectA featured in the images.

Herbivores Gather Around the Waterhole

A small pond in the dinosaur diorama.
Horned dinosaurs come to drink against the backdrop of a volcano.

Picture credit: Paul

A Dinosaur Diorama with Special Effects

Young Luke had his very own “Jurassic Park” complete with working volcano, Paul explained how he created the special effects:

“The volcano has a smoke channel (old hosepipe and a smoke machine), a lava injector (intravenous giving set), plus an incendiary fountain chamber created by placing a sparkler fountain in a tin can”.

The Diorama Even has Geysers Belching Smoke and Fumes

Special effects in the dinosaur diorama.
Smoke coming out of a crater close to the volcano.

Picture credit: Paul

What a fantastic landscape!  We are always eager to see how the prehistoric animal models that we supply are used and some of the landscapes and dioramas that our customers make are amazing.  Our thanks to Paul and his family for sharing these pictures.

To purchase dinosaurs and prehistoric animal figures: Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Animal Figures.

Paul is not finished with his model making.  Raef will be getting his own prehistoric themed play set very soon.  This will be an additional dinosaur landscape, this time a mixed land and sea diorama that will also include a cliff-face for the resident Pterosaurs.

Exciting news!  Paul has promised to send in pictures of his completed prehistoric scenery in the New Year, we are looking forward to seeing his new dinosaur themed landscape in 2018.

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

21 11, 2017

Another Day – Another Pterosaur Fact Sheet

By |2023-08-25T14:11:24+01:00November 21st, 2017|Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur News and Updates, Main Page, Press Releases|0 Comments

Tupandactylus imperator – Big-headed Pterosaur

Another day and another pterosaur fact sheet is being prepared by Everything Dinosaur team members.  The flying reptile in question is Tupandactylus imperator, known from the famous Crato Formation in the Araripe Basin of north-eastern Brazil.  Known from only four skulls and a fragmentary jawbone, discovered in commercial limestone quarries, this pterosaur sported the largest crest of any known flying reptile.  The head crests of the two species so far described (T. imperator and T. navigans) may have been different shapes.

A Pterosaur Fact Sheet

The head crest of Tupandactylus navigans was taller and more sail-like, whilst the crest of T.  imperator was more swept back and broader.  Both crests were huge, with the largest specimens of T. imperator having a head crest that makes up 5/6th the total lateral area of the skull.

Everything Dinosaur’s Illustration of Tupandactylus (T. imperator)

Tupandactylus illustration.
A scale drawing of the tapejarid pterosaur Tupandactylus imperator.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

For models of pterosaurs and other prehistoric animals: Mojo Fun Prehistoric and Extinct Figures.

Closely Related to Tapejara

When described, back in 1997 (Campos and Kellner), the fossil material was assigned to the Tapejara genus, but subsequent, better preserved skull material showed enough anatomical differences to permit a new genus – Tupandactylus to be established in 2007.  The genus name means “Tupan finger”, a reference to the god of thunder of the indigenous Tupi Indians of north-eastern Brazil.  It may not be part of the Tapejara genus anymore, but it was closely related to Tapejara, although some palaeontologists, using what little stratigraphic evidence associated with the fossil material, suggest that Tupandactylus lived earlier in the Cretaceous than Tapejara (Tapejara wellnhoferi).

What Did Tupandactylus Eat?

Fossils of this flying reptile are associated with a lacustrine (lake), inland environment.  A number of sources report that this pterosaur ate fish (piscivore), although more recent research suggests that this pterosaur may have feasted on a variety of foods and was probably omnivorous – feeding of fruit and seeds as well as small vertebrates.

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

20 11, 2017

Developing Fine Motor Skills in Your Child

By |2023-08-25T14:03:14+01:00November 20th, 2017|Early Years Foundation Reception|Comments Off on Developing Fine Motor Skills in Your Child

Helping to Develop Fine Motor Skills in Young Children

One of our Everything Dinosaur teaching team members was asked the other day by an anxious mother of a three-year-old about the best way to develop fine motor skills in her child.  Fine motor control is certainly a key skill that will stand your child in good stead when it comes to school, especially when you consider the dexterity required to hold a writing implement and to form letters.  However, the use of pens and pencils are not necessarily required to help your child develop fine motor control. 

As a child explores everyday objects and learns about their properties, then motor control will be improved.  Simply playing with small objects or even rolling out modelling clay will help your child gain confidence and improve their dexterity.

Fine Motor Skills Are an Essential Key Life Skill

Reception child draws a sauropod.
Long-necked dinosaur by a Reception-aged child.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Fine Motor Skills Defined

Fine motor skills or fine motor control as it is sometimes referred to as, involves a coordinated and confident use of small muscles to enable delicate tasks to be completed successfully.  Developing the ability to manipulate and control small objects with the fingers and thumb will be vital as the child begins the process of learning to write.  Motor skills develop over time and effective motor control will help the child with numerous activities, not just those involving academic achievement but tasks that help the child gain more independence and self-confidence, tasks such as dressing and feeding oneself.

Parents wanting to help their toddler with their fine motor control, such as the mother of the three-year-old, can simply encourage the child through creative play at home.  Activities in which the child has to manipulate small objects are very useful, forming letters using modelling clay, playing with small building bricks, tracing shapes in a sand tray, all these activities can help a child build strength in their fingers and dexterity.

Playing with Plastic Dinosaurs Can Help Build Fine Motor Skills

PNSO Domingo the Carnotaurus and A-Shu the Qianzhousaurus
The PNSO Domingo the Carnotaurus and A-Shu dinosaur models. Playing with dinosaur models can help develop fine motor skills.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The two theropod dinosaur figures shown above come from the PNSO model range.

To view this range: PNSO Age of Dinosaurs Models and Figures.

Everything Dinosaur and Developing Fine Motor Skills

Everything Dinosaur’s set of plastic dinosaur skeletons make a great set of resources to help develop fine motor skills.  Our skeleton set features twelve different prehistoric animal models and these little plastic dinosaurs have been used in all sorts of activities to help encourage fine motor control.  From making casts in modelling clay to pretending to excavate a fossil in the sand pit, these sturdy figures are great for imaginative, creative play and just the right size for little hands to manipulate.

To view the skeleton set and the extensive range of learning orientated dinosaur-themed resources available: Everything Dinosaur.

Points to Remember – Top Tips

When it comes to handwriting, some children are going to be able to develop the appropriate skill set more quickly than others, but don’t worry – practice makes perfect.  Children develop at different rates, one sibling may develop more quickly than another.  Many children will need to work on their fine motor skills for some time in order to build up the strength and coordination required to tackle writing.  Parents, guardians and grandparents can assist in his process by encouraging the child through creative, imaginative play with small objects that require manipulation.

For dinosaur themed children’s toys and games: Dinosaur Themed Toys, Games and Gifts.

20 11, 2017

JurassicCollectables Reviews the Papo Dimorphodon Figure

By |2023-08-25T13:47:06+01:00November 20th, 2017|Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Everything Dinosaur videos, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products|1 Comment

A Review of the Papo Dimorphodon Figure by JurassicCollectables

We are in the middle of “dinovember”, a time of the year when model fans showcase their prehistoric animal figures.  How appropriate then, for those talented people at JurassicCollectables to bring out a video review of the Early Jurassic pterosaur Dimorphodon.   This is a very informative and well-made video review of a Papo, new for 2017, prehistoric animal model.  The Papo Dimorphodon model was one of the last of the new for 2017 releases, but it was well worth the wait and this excellent video really does this flying reptile figure justice.

The JurassicCollectables Video Review of the Papo Dimorphodon Replica

Video credit: JurassicCollectables

The Papo Dimorphodon Model

Dimorphodon was a flying reptile, a member of the long-tailed pterosaurs.  The narrator highlights the tail on the replica in this enjoyable video review, describing the colour scheme as very “lemur-like”.  He goes on to praise the design team at Papo for making figures that have lots of natural colours and that reflect what is seen in animals alive today.

Two species of Dimorphodon have been recognised, the first to be described was a specimen found in England (by the famous fossil hunter Mary Anning).  A second species is known from Mexico.  The video gives viewers the chance to see the well-painted skull in glorious detail and comments are made about the way in which Papo depict the eyes on their figures.  There is even time to admire the articulated jaw, showing those different-sized teeth, that gave this genus of Early Jurassic flying reptile its name.

The New for 2017 Papo Dimorphodon Model

Papo Dimorphodon figure.
The Papo Dimorphodon model.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Comparing the Papo Dimorphodon to Other Papo Prehistoric Animals

A great thing about this JurassicCollectables video review is that model collectors can compare the Papo Dimorphodon to several other Papo models, all of which have been previously reviewed on the JurassicCollectables YouTube channel.  In this video, the viewer is treated to comparisons with the new Papo young Spinosaurus replica along with the Archaeopteryx, Pteranodon and the Papo Tupuxuara.  Poor, “off-colour Alan”, does not fare well, the Dimorphodon is shown attacking him and the video ends with the flying reptile balanced on his shoulders.

The YouTube channel of JurassicCollectables provides a comprehensive resource for prehistoric animal and dinosaur model reviews.  The videos are skilfully produced and provide viewers with the chance to examine prehistoric animal figures very close-up.

Visit the YouTube channel of JurassicCollectables here: JurassicCollectables on YouTube, Everything Dinosaur recommends that prehistoric animal model fans subscribe to JurassicCollectables.

A Close-up View of the Skull and Jaws of the Papo Dimorphodon Figure

The Papo Dimorphodon model (detail of the head).
The Papo Dimorphodon flying reptile head close-up.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The video is just under twelve minutes in length and it contains a wealth of material on this 2017 Papo edition and the French company is praised for producing figures with naturalistic and earthy tones with amazing detail, especially around the eye socket.

It is always a pleasure to see reviews of Pterosaurs, especially a flying reptile with an affinity with the British Isles such as Dimorphodon.  We look forward to viewing the videos produced by JurassicCollectables when the new for 2018 Papo figures become available.

To see the entire range of Papo prehistoric animal models at Everything Dinosaur, including all the 2017 prehistoric animal releases: Papo Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Models.

19 11, 2017

Papo New Prehistoric Animal Models for 2018

By |2023-08-25T13:38:22+01:00November 19th, 2017|Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products|0 Comments

Papo New Prehistoric Animal Models for 2018

A lot of media sources have published pictures of the new for 2018 prehistoric animal models from Papo.  These sites have claimed that there is a total of five new items, however, many of these sites and media sources have omitted details about the introduction of a large, prehistoric animal themed play set from Papo due for release next year.  In this blog post we will provide details and images of all six of the new for 2018 releases heading for the Papo “dinosaurs” model range.

Papo Young Spinosaurus will be Available as an Individual Model

Papo juvenile Spinosaurus model.
The Papo young Spinosaurus dinosaur model.

Papo Prehistoric Animal Models

The Papo young Spinosaurus figure will be available to purchase as an individual model.  Currently, this figure is only available in a box set with the Papo Ceratosaurus.  It has now been confirmed that the juvenile Spinosaurus with its articulated lower jaw will become part of the model range and that the limited-edition box set will be discontinued.

Fans of Papo and model collectors have just a few weeks in order to pick up the special edition gift box which features the Papo young Spinosaurus and the Papo Ceratosaurus figure.

The Limited-edition Papo Box Set (Young Spinosaurus and Ceratosaurus Dinosaur Models)

Papo juvenile Spinosaurus and the Papo Ceratosaurus special edition gift box.
The Papo juvenile Spinosaurus and the Papo Ceratosaurus gift box.

To view the special edition gift box and the rest of the Papo model range: Papo Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Animals.

Papo Amargasaurus Model

Papo have added another diplodocid dinosaur to join their young Apatosaurus figure.  The Papo Amargasaurus is depicted with a neck frill and a humped-back, perhaps an evolutionary adaptation to help this large, herbivorous dinosaur endure prolonged periods of drought.

The New for 2018 Papo Amargasaurus Dinosaur Model

Papo Amargasaurus
Papo Amargasaurus dinosaur model.

Papo Prehistoric Man Model

Next up, is the Papo prehistoric man figure, complete with spear and club.  This model looks to us like a re-issue of the Papo caveman figure with spear that was discontinued some years ago.  This figure sports a new paint scheme and it is great to see an introduction of a “caveman” into the Papo collection, especially since France has a rich heritage of hominin fossils.

The New for 2018 Papo Prehistoric Man Figure

Papo Caveman with club and spear.
Papo prehistoric man.

Comparing the Papo Cavemen Figures

Papo cavemen comparison.
A comparison between the original Papo caveman and the 2018 Papo prehistoric man.

Papo Therizinosaurus

The new Papo Therizinosaurus dinosaur model is expected to arrive sometime in quarter 2 (March to the end of June 2018), it too, will possess an articulated jaw, like the young Spinosaurus replica.  We have yet to have formal confirmation of the measurements, but we at Everything Dinosaur, believe that this is going to be Papo’s largest prehistoric animal model introduced next year.

New for 2018 the Papo Therizinosaurus Dinosaur Model

Papo Therizinosaurus.
Papo Therizinosaurus dinosaur model.

The sculpt is very typically Papo, with the design team favouring a more scaly representation, with feathers confined mainly to the arms and to that stubby tail.  The posture is interesting, with the left foot raised resulting in the replica balancing on the toe claws, reminiscent of the stance seen in the 2017 Papo Ceratosaurus.

New for 2018 the Papo Iguanodon Figure

Papo Iguanodon dinosaur model.
The new for 2018 Papo Iguanodon model.

Papo Iguanodon Dinosaur Model

Expected to arrive around the same time as the Therizinosaurus replica is this fascinating model of Iguanodon.  It certainly is a very robust looking dinosaur and the limb proportions suggest that this model is based upon Iguanodon bernissartensis, which makes sense as fossils of this herbivorous dinosaur have been found in France, as well as elsewhere within Europe.  The Papo Iguanodon will have an articulated jaw.

With five figures added, it is worthwhile mentioning what models will be retired next year from the Papo model range.  The Pachyrhinosaurus, the baby brown Tyrannosaurus rex figure and the baby Woolly Mammoth model are now all out of production.

To read more about Papo model retirements: Papo Models and Retirements.

The Papo “Land of Dinosaurs”

The sixth edition to the Papo “Les Dinosaures” range is this large-sized, prehistoric animal themed play set.  Full details have yet to be released by Papo, but following the successful introduction of the bush outpost and playmat into the “La Vie Sauvage” (wildlife) range, it was almost inevitable that a prehistoric landscape would be made.

New for 2018 Papo “Land of Dinosaurs” Play Set

Papo dinosaur landscape play set.
Papo “Land of Dinosaurs” play set.

Constructed from sturdy card and other composite materials, the “Land of Dinosaurs” slots together to create a cave with an erupting volcano in which to place your prehistoric animal models.  We are not sure of the dimensions of this set, other than having been told “it’s big”.  In addition, we suspect that the prehistoric animals featured in the image above will not be included in the kit (figures sold separately).

When Will These Models/Play Sets be Available?

At Everything Dinosaur, we will publish more information when we receive it, but for the time being here are the proposed release dates:

Quarter 1 (between January and the end of March) – Young Spinosaurus, the prehistoric man, Papo Amargasaurus and the “Land of Dinosaurs” play set.

Quarter 2 (between the end of March and the end of June) – Papo Iguanodon and the Papo Therizinosaurus models.

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Everything Dinosaur.

18 11, 2017

Everything Dinosaur’s First Christmas Newsletter (2017)

By |2023-08-25T13:05:11+01:00November 18th, 2017|Dinosaur Fans, Everything Dinosaur Newsletters, Everything Dinosaur Products, Main Page, Photos of Everything Dinosaur Products|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur Getting into the Christmas Spirit

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…  Our warehouse and packing area is very busy as we enter that time of year when gift buying reaches its peak.  For the next six weeks or so Everything Dinosaur team members are going to be working as fast as we can to ensure that Christmas presents are packed and dispatched in time for the big day.  Our first newsletter about the festive season is about to go out and we have even added a new banner to mark the start of holiday season.

A New Banner for Our Newsletter (Christmas 2017)

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.
Everything Dinosaur, Christmas Newsletter banner 2017.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

A Blue Triceratops Christmas for Everything Dinosaur

The Everything Dinosaur newsletter features information about a new addition to our huge soft toy prehistoric animal range.  It might be getting a little chilly outside but this blue, very cuddly Triceratops soft toy is guaranteed to warm the cockles of your heart.

A Blue Triceratops Soft Toy

A big, Triceratops soft toy.
A big, blue Triceratops soft toy.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The soft toy Triceratops measures a whopping 45 centimetres long and his colourful crest is some 22 cm in the air.  Made from sponge washable fabric, this is proving to be a firm favourite amongst young dinosaur fans.

To view the big, blue Triceratops and the other large soft toy dinosaurs available from Everything Dinosaur: Dinosaur Soft Toys.

Dinosaur Themed Stocking Fillers

When it comes to prehistoric animal gifts and dinosaur themed stocking fillers, visitors to Everything Dinosaur’s website will be spoilt for choice.  The UK-based company stocks hundreds of different dinosaurs, marine reptiles, prehistoric mammals and flying reptiles.  All kinds of gifts at very reasonable prices all backed by the super-fast delivery service.

The Newsletter Highlighted Some Stocking Filler Gift Ideas

Christmas gift ideas for 2017.
Dinosaur themed Christmas gifts.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Personal favourites this year include prehistoric animal themed pendants and a splendid T. rex inspired clip-on reading light – just the thing to inspire the next generation of palaeontologists.  In addition, our thousands of model collectors were not forgotten, the newsletter contained information about the acquisition of some of the very last sets of prehistoric shark models from Safari Ltd.

To view the Safari Ltd model range: Wild Safari Prehistoric World Figures.

The “Wild Safari Prehistoric Sharks Toob” has long since been retired, but Everything Dinosaur newsletter readers were notified about some sets having been acquired and they were offered them at a special discounted price.  No need to spend a fortune looking for rare models on auction sites, Everything Dinosaur has it covered – better grab these special offers soon before they disappear into “fin” [pun] air!

The Prehistoric Sharks Toob (Safari Ltd)

Everything Dinosaur stocking the prehistoric shark toob.
Everything Dinosaur stocking the prehistoric shark toob.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Check out the special offers and the wide gift selection: Everything Dinosaur’s website.

Our dedicated team members are on hand to help with enquiries and we are working seven days a week to ensure parcels are dispatched promptly, However, we are still making time to answer questions and handle enquiries from our many thousands of newsletter subscribers.  It is certainly beginning to look a lot like Christmas…

To subscribe to Everything Dinosaur’s regular newsletter, simply drop us an email: Email Everything Dinosaur.

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