Tyrannosaurus rex
Photograph by M.A. Magallanes Trejo

Tyrannosaurus rex ('tyrant lizard king'), a theropod dinosaur belonging to the Tyrannosauridae family, inhabited western North America during the late Cretaceous period, around 68 to 66 million years ago. It represents one of the largest land predators known to have existed, characterised by its robust skull, powerful jaws equipped with banana-shaped teeth, and a robust body supported by strong hind limbs. Recent research suggests T. rex likely possessed keen senses, including excellent vision and a highly developed olfactory system, facilitating efficient hunting or scavenging activities. Its biomechanical studies indicate an impressive locomotor capacity, possibly capable of achieving speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. Though extensively studied, aspects of its behaviour, such as its hunting strategies and social interactions, remain subjects of ongoing scientific inquiry. Nevertheless, T. rex remains a focal point in paleontological research and a compelling emblem of the Mesozoic Era's terrestrial dominance.