Articles for author: Awais Khan

ground covered with snow

Could Global Cooling Have Killed the Dinosaurs First?

The extinction of dinosaurs has captivated scientific minds for generations, with the asteroid impact theory dominating discussions for decades. However, recent research suggests a more nuanced picture of the dinosaurs’ final days. Evidence indicates that significant climate changes, particularly global cooling, may have already been stressing dinosaur populations before the Chicxulub asteroid delivered the final ...

Illustration of two prehistoric canines against a dark blue background. The left resembles a wolf with thick fur, the right has a bear-like build.

The Real Dire Wolf: Separating History, De-Extinction & Game of Thrones

Few prehistoric predators have captured the modern imagination quite like the dire wolf. Made famous by George R.R. Martin’s fantasy series “A Song of Ice and Fire” and its television adaptation “Game of Thrones,” dire wolves have transcended from paleontological curiosity to pop culture icon. However, the fictional portrayal differs significantly from what science tells ...

Edmontonia Growth and Development

How Accurate Are Dinosaur Growth Charts?

Dinosaur growth charts have become essential tools for paleontologists trying to understand how these magnificent creatures developed from hatchlings to adults. These visual representations track the estimated size, weight, and morphological changes of dinosaurs throughout their lifespans. While they appear authoritative in museums and textbooks, the accuracy of these growth charts varies significantly based on ...

FossiLab at Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Secret Life of Fossil Prep Labs: How Mistakes Are Avoided

From dusty field discoveries to museum pedestals, fossils undergo a remarkable transformation journey—one largely hidden from public view. Behind the scenes, fossil preparation laboratories operate as the critical bridge between excavation and exhibition. These specialized workspaces combine elements of science, art, and craftsmanship, where technicians meticulously free ancient remains from their rocky prisons. This delicate ...

A colorful dinosaur statue with an open mouth stands amidst lush greenery and tall trees in a forest setting, creating a playful, lively scene.

Could Dinosaurs Have Used Venom to Hunt?

For generations, our understanding of dinosaurs has been continuously evolving. From slow, lumbering beasts to agile predators, our perception of these ancient creatures transforms with each new scientific discovery. Among the most intriguing recent questions in paleontology is whether some dinosaurs might have utilized venom as a hunting strategy. This fascinating possibility challenges our conventional ...

An emu stands alert in a grassy field, its textured brown plumage blending with the golden background. The scene is calm and natural.

Cassowaries: The Modern-Day Dinosaurs Walking Among Us

In the dense rainforests of northeastern Australia, Papua New Guinea, and nearby islands, a creature stalks the undergrowth that seems like a visitor from Earth’s prehistoric past. Standing up to 6.5 feet tall, with brilliant blue necks, red wattles, and a distinctive helmet-like casque atop their heads, cassowaries are often described as “modern-day dinosaurs.” This ...

A dark-colored Tyrannosaurus rex walks past trees and foliage with a small theropod following closely, playfully snapping at a fluttering butterfly.

Ancient Lizards: How Prehistoric Reptiles Paved the Way for Modern Dragons

The vast expanse of prehistoric time harbored creatures so remarkable that they continue to capture our imagination today. Among these ancient beings, prehistoric reptiles stand as some of the most fascinating organisms to have ever roamed the Earth. Their legacy extends beyond mere scientific interest, inspiring countless tales of mythical dragons across human cultures. These ...