CALGARY, AB, February 10, 2020 - Palaeontologists have discovered a new species of tyrannosaur from a fossil uncovered by John De Groot, a farmer and palaeontology enthusiast, in southern Alberta, Canada. Thanatotheristes degrootorum is one of the oldest tyrannosaur species ever discovered in North America, according to an article published by researchers from the University of Calgary and the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology in the journal Cretaceous Research. At roughly 79.5 million years old, this species is 2.5 million years older than its closest relative and is directly linked to Tyrannosaurus rex.

“Alberta has a rich dinosaur history, and we have uncovered some of the biggest finds on Earth here in the province,” said Dr. François Therrien, Curator of Dinosaur Palaeoecology at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. “The discovery of Thanatotheristes degrootorum is historic as it marks the first new species of tyrannosaur to be unearthed in Canada in 50 years. The last tyrannosaur described from Canada was Daspletosaurus in 1970.”

The name of the new tyrannosaur alludes to its role as an apex predator and was inspired by Thanatos (Greek god of death) and theristes (one who reaps or harvests). The second part of the name honours the De Groot family.

Tyrannosaurs were a group of large predatory theropod dinosaurs (bipedal meat-eaters). This species of tyrannosaur was eight to nine metres (26.2 to 30 feet) long and weighed approximately two tons as a full-grown adult. In comparison, a full-grown Tyrannosaurus rex could reach 12 metres (39.3 feet) in length. There are only four other tyrannosaurs known from Canada: Daspletosaurus, Gorgosaurus, Albertosaurus, and Tyrannosaurus.

Scientists were able to identify this as a new species by analyzing the unique features of fossil skull fragments. “Thanatotheristes can be distinguished from all other tyrannosaurs by numerous characteristics of the skull, but the most prominent are vertical ridges that run the length of the upper jaw,” said Jared Voris, a University of Calgary Ph.D. student, and lead author of the study.

Home to the world's richest fossil sites, Alberta is the ideal destination for discovering prehistoric gems for both locals and travelers. Visitors and dinosaur enthusiasts can experience the excitement of prospecting for fossils by hiking in the spectacular badlands or participating in an authentic and official bonebed excavation. John De Groot found the fossil skull fragments while hiking near his farm near Hays, Alberta. John and Sandra De Groot have been valuable supporters of palaeontological fieldwork in southern Alberta.

“The jawbone was an absolutely stunning find. We knew it was special because you could clearly see the fossilized teeth,” said De Groot. “There are so many dinosaur fossils in Alberta to be unearthed, and my find is by no means isolated. Many locals and visitors have spotted fossils of all kinds during leisurely strolls and hikes.” 

Anyone can experience Alberta's incredible prehistoric past. Set in the legendary badlands of southeastern Alberta and located about 200 kilometres (124 miles) southeast of Calgary, Dinosaur Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is remarkable for its vast badlands, inestimable volume of fossils and palaeontological treasures, and unique riverside habitat. For dinosaur enthusiasts who want to follow in the footsteps of palaeontologists, Alberta's Dinosaur Provincial Park offers one, two and three-day guided excavation programs in which participants take part in real dinosaur digs that contribute to ongoing scientific research at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. For more information about how you can experience Alberta's incredible prehistoric past, visit travelalberta.com.

About The Royal Tyrrell Museum
The world-renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology is located near Drumheller, Alberta, approximately 1.5 hours northeast of Calgary.  It houses one of the world's largest displays of dinosaurs and is Canada's only museum dedicated exclusively to the study of ancient life. tyrrellmuseum.com

About the University of Calgary
The University of Calgary is a global intellectual hub located in Canada's most enterprising city. In our spirited, high-quality learning environment, students thrive in programs made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. Our strategy drives us to be recognized as one of Canada's top five research universities, engaging the communities we both serve and lead. This strategy is called Eyes High, inspired by the university's Gaelic motto, which translates as 'I will lift up my eyes.' For more information, visit ucalgary.ca/eyeshigh.

About Alberta, Canada
Located in the heart of Western Canada, bordered by the Rocky Mountains to the west and the prairies to the east, the province of Alberta is a vacation destination known for surprising even the most experienced travellers. The picturesque mountain towns of Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper are revered by hikers and nature lovers for their awe-inspiring terrain, jaw-dropping vistas and abundant Canadian wildlife. From exploring Calgary and Edmonton, lively cities brimming with music, culture and nightlife, to discovering dinosaur fossils in the mysterious Canadian Badlands, visiting Alberta promises an experience unlike any other. travelalberta.com 

Media Contact:

Rose Bolton
Global Media Specialist, Canada + USA
Travel Alberta
C: 403-605-7846
rose.bolton@travelalberta.com