Late Jurassic
Western North America

Life as a dinosaur predator was rough and tumble. Battling over prey, carcasses, mates, and territory could easily result in an injury. The middle (third) toe of the foot was the main weight-bearing part of the foot.

The pathological bone shown here is the first segment of the third toe. It has an incredible overgrowth of irregular, roughened bone which is a sign of severe injury or disease. There was a massive infection and the deep pits on the bone allowed the pus to drain out from the bone.

We know that the animal lived after the original injury and grew the irregular bone mass, but the subsequent infection surely disabled the Allosaurus and may have caused its death.

Although it is not unusual to see a pathology in the bones of Allosaurus, these injuries are rarely seem in museum exhibits. This is truly unique replica to own. A normal third toe bone is included for comparison.

Size: pathological: 6½" long 5¼" wide. 4" tall

Size: normal: 5" long, 3" wide, 3" tall

WEP, with informative label

Price: $35.00 (set)

Click on image to enlarge.