New ‘Hell-Heron’ Dinosaur Species Unearthed in Niger Desert
A remarkable discovery in the central Sahara Desert has revealed a new species of spinosaurid dinosaur, Spinosaurus mirabilis. The uncover, announced on February 22, 2026, marks the first new species of Spinosaurus identified in over a century and offers valuable insights into the evolution of these large, fish-eating predators.
A Giant from the Cretaceous Period
Fossils of Spinosaurus mirabilis were collected from the Farak Formation of Niger during excavations conducted in 2000, 2019, and 2022, led by paleontologist Paul Sereno of the University of Chicago. The dinosaur, estimated to have lived around 95 million years ago during the Cretaceous period, was a formidable creature, reaching an estimated 12 meters (approximately 40 feet) in length and weighing between 5 and 7 tons.
Distinctive Features: A Sabre-Like Crest and Crocodile-Like Snout
What sets Spinosaurus mirabilis apart is its unique cranial ornamentation. The dinosaur possessed a prominent, scimitar-shaped crest atop its skull, potentially used for display. Archaeologist Boubé Adamou, participating in the missions, described the crest as resembling that of a guinea fowl. The species featured an elongated snout similar to that of a crocodile and nostrils positioned further back on the skull, adaptations likely aiding in aquatic hunting.
The interlocking teeth of Spinosaurus mirabilis are another key feature, with lower jaw teeth protruding between those of the upper jaw, creating a trap for slippery fish. This adaptation is also seen in other aquatic predators like ichthyosaurs and crocodiles.
A Semi-Aquatic Lifestyle
Researchers believe Spinosaurus mirabilis was a semi-aquatic predator, thriving in marshy environments and actively hunting fish. Sereno suggests the dinosaur likely fished in waters around 3 feet deep, though it was large enough to stand in up to 6 feet of water. The area where the fossils were found is now a desert, but during the Cretaceous period, it was a lush, inland area with rivers and swamps teeming with large fish – some reaching over 9 feet in length.
Sereno likens the dinosaur to a heron, noting its body plan was well-suited to a semi-aquatic lifestyle.
Implications for Paleontological Research
The discovery of Spinosaurus mirabilis adds a crucial piece to the puzzle of spinosaurid evolution. It provides new fossil evidence for the closing chapter of the genus’s history. The Niger region is increasingly recognized as a significant site for dinosaur discoveries, with plans underway to construct archaeology and paleontology museums in Niamey and Agadez.
Future of Spinosaurus Research
While no further expeditions are currently planned, the collected fossils are now undergoing detailed study. The findings are expected to be presented to the public in the future, furthering our understanding of these fascinating creatures and the ancient ecosystems they inhabited.
FAQ
What is Spinosaurus mirabilis?
Spinosaurus mirabilis is a newly discovered species of spinosaurid dinosaur found in Niger. It lived approximately 95 million years ago.
What did Spinosaurus mirabilis eat?
This dinosaur was a fish-eating predator, adapted for hunting in shallow water environments.
Where was Spinosaurus mirabilis discovered?
The fossils were discovered in the Farak Formation of Niger, in the central Sahara Desert.
What is unique about its appearance?
It had a distinctive scimitar-shaped crest on its skull and an elongated, crocodile-like snout.
Did you know? The crest of Spinosaurus mirabilis was likely covered in keratin and brightly colored, potentially used for display.
Pro Tip: To learn more about dinosaur discoveries, explore resources from the University of Chicago’s Fossil Lab: https://news.uchicago.edu/story/hell-heron-dinosaur-discovered-central-sahara
Interested in learning more about paleontology? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
