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OEDG and description of a
Thescelosaurus remains from the
Hell Creek formation
John Rodriguez
Outline
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Research project
Lab work
Computer work
Field work
Preparing remains of a
Thescelosaurus
Stabilizing the vertebrae
Computer Work
• We use cameras and computer software
to aid us in writing our papers.
• Photoshop
• Comparative drawings
Fig.1. Map showing locality of specimen (LACM 153342)
Making a comparison drawing
Original picture
Tracing lines on to the original
Final product for discussion on paper
Fusion is a good indicator that an individual has attained adult size,
(Makovicky, 1995)
Fig. 2 A – E, show a series (although perhaps not consecutive) of
dorsal vertebrae (LACM 153342) in lateral view.
Comparing a specimen against one
from the NHMLAC collection
The similarities are hard to dismiss, this
is a Thescelosaurus.
Conclusion
• The specimen (LACM 153342) which I
prepared is a Thescelosaurus.
• The individual was not an adult because
the vertebrae lacks fusion to the spinous
process
Field work
• El Golfo Sonora, Mexico.
– Surface collecting
– Organization
– Procedures
– Work with a different team
Organizing the group and explanation of collecting procedures
Learning to use the GPS
Sieving a potential location
Discovery of a Tapir
Field work
• The Mojave dessert, California
– Identify tracks
– Extraction of tracks
– Logistics
– Hard work
Same track extracted
Identify track
A track finally dislodges
Each track had to be a carried down in this fashion
Everyone who participated in the Mojave expedition
Experience
• Overall the experience has been
challenging every step of the way and very
rewarding. It is enjoyable to look back and
realize how everything came together.
From the first step in the lab, to the
extraction of the tracks found in the
Mojave.
Acknowledgements
• I would like to thank Dr. Luis Chiappe and
the staff of the NHM for their patience and
commitment to this assignment.
• I would also like to thank Professor Elias
Kary for informing me about the Natural
History museums OEDG program.