The "king" was both an active hunter and an opportunistic scavenger. Tyrannosaurus rex, facts and photos
T. rex was a massive theropod that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 68 to 66 million years ago. The "king" was both an active hunter and
Tyrannosaurus rex : The "Tyrant Lizard King" The Tyrannosaurus rex remains the most iconic predator in Earth's history. Recent paleontological discoveries have dramatically shifted our understanding of this apex predator, revealing a creature that was more complex—and perhaps more bird-like—than the "monsters" depicted in 20th-century cinema. Physical Characteristics & Recent Discoveries Tyrannosaurus rex : The "Tyrant Lizard King" The
: New research suggests T. rex walked on its tiptoes, a bird-like foot function that made it an efficient walker rather than a high-speed runner. rex walked on its tiptoes, a bird-like foot
: While popularized with scaly skin, evidence of feathers on close relatives suggests they may have had patches of feathers , particularly as juveniles. Diet and Hunting Behavior
: Scientists originally thought T. rex matured in 20 years, but new bone analysis indicates they were slow growers, not reaching full size until 35 to 40 years old.
: Adults could reach lengths of 40–42 feet and weigh up to 8–9 tons.