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How to Identify Dinosaur Bones & Fossils

Dinosaurs fell into two basic types: plant eaters and meat eaters, also known as carnivores and herbivores. Upon extinction about 65 million years ago, their bones settled into the earth and, because of erosion, became trapped in many layers of sediment and rock. Finding a dinosaur bone is an exciting discovery, but identifying the bone involves careful examination. The physical appearance of a fossil can help you make an accurate decision.

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the size of your fossil. Dinosaur fossils will look almost exaggerated in size if they came from a larger creature such as a tyrannosaurus.
- 2
  Inspect the inner workings. Carnivorous dinosaurs had hollow bones that were extremely thick and sturdy. Herbivore fossils are not hollow.
- 3
  Feel any teeth or horn fossils. Dinosaur teeth and horns are rare, and can easily be confused with the teeth and horns of other animals. Look for a cone shape. Longer, serrated teeth belong to carnivores; shorter teeth belong to herbivores.
- 4
  Note the shape. Dinosaurs bore striking resemblance to birds in their skeletal remains. Most had hip bones that were shaped like a bird's, with wide-set legs.
- 5
  Feel the texture. Rocks and sedimentary deposits are rough and uneven, often grainy, but can resemble bones. Dinosaur bones are smoother; dirt and debris are easily removed.

Fossil Collecting