Prehistoric creatures are invading Southampton as part of Dino Encounter, a major new event hosted by SeaCity Museum in Southampton until 27 September.
Working collaboratively with palaeontologists from Ocean and Earth Science at the University, Dino Encounter tells the story of how cutting-edge science is increasing our knowledge of dinosaurs and their close relatives, challenging some of this generation’s long-held beliefs.
Dr Gareth Dyke, based in the University’s Vertebrate Palaeontology Research Group, has given his scientific input to ensure the exhibit is as close to the real thing as possible. PhD student James Hansford worked with SeaCity to produce the exhibit, which highlights the University’s research into marine reptiles, biomechanics and extinction dynamics.
L-R: Kate Acheson, Darren Naish, Liz Martin-Silverstone, Jessica Lawrence Wujek, Craig Fraser, James Hansford, Colin Palmer, Sarah Strachan
Professor Rachel Mills, Head of Ocean and Earth Science at the University of Southampton, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with SeaCity and bringing dinosaurs to life in Southampton this summer. Our world-class palaeontology research has been providing new insights into dinosaur behaviour and the evolution of dinosaurs into birds. The Vertebrate Palaeontology Group from Ocean and Earth Science has used this research to support SeaCity in creating this unique and exciting exhibit featuring dinosaurs and pterosaurs from the Cretaceous Era.”
Visitors will have the chance to discover a wonderful array of specimens, from giant sea monsters from the frozen land of Svalbard in the Arctic Circle to the mysterious elephant bird of Madagascar, and get up close four life-size animatronic dinosaurs from the Natural History Museum.
To find out more, pre-book tickets and download a map visit http://www.dinofest2015.co.uk/or call SeaCity Museum on 023 8083 4536.
