Dilophosaurus wetherilli

Part of the RAPTORS & HUNTERS Exhibit

Early Jurassic Period, approx. 193-183 million years ago

1:2 Scale Skull Replica

SPECIMEN PROFILE

Dilophosaurus wetherilli was one of the earliest large-bodied theropods of North America, inhabiting arid floodplains, river channels, and seasonal woodland environments during the Early Jurassic. It represents an important stage in theropod evolution, when large predatory dinosaurs were beginning to diversify into more specialized forms.

Its most distinctive feature is the paired cranial crests formed by thin bone, likely used for visual display and species recognition rather than combat. Dilophosaurus had a lightly built but relatively large frame for its time, with long hindlimbs suggesting strong running capability. Its jaws were slender compared to later apex predators, indicating a feeding strategy focused on smaller vertebrates and opportunistic hunting rather than sustained large-prey predation.

COLLECTOR & CURATOR NOTE

An early Jurassic large theropod defined by its twin cranial crests—representing a transitional stage in predatory dinosaur evolution where display structures and agile hunting strategies began to diversify.

CONSTRUCTION & DISPLAY

Scale

• 1:2, approx. 10.2 in or 26 cm

Fossil Finishes

• Aged Bone: A weathered bone-white aesthetic, evoking exposed skeletal remains and museum restorations.

• Canyon: Warm earth tones and terracotta hues, inspired by fossil beds such as Picketwire and Mill Canyon.

• Fossilized: Deep browns and near-black coloration, replicating the mineral-rich preservation seen in authentic fossil specimens.

Specimen Format

• Unmounted study specimen: A standalone skull, ideal for shelves, cases, or custom display setups.

• Desktop-mounted display specimen: Presented on a handmade desktop stand, crafted from wood with brass furnishings and a custom specimen placard — designed to elevate the specimen as a true exhibit piece.

Medium

• Hand-painted resin