Walk together, survive together: Dinosaur footprints reveal first clues of mixed-species herding

Dinosaur Footprints Reveal First Clues of Mixed-Species Herding (Image: University of Reading)

In the quiet of Canada’s Dinosaur Provincial Park, the past stepped out of hiding. A muddy patch of rock, long overlooked, has told a tale of dinosaurs walking side by side, leaving behind a trail of clues buried for 76 million years.

Tracks show dinosaurs travelled in mixed herds

Researchers recently discovered an ancient tracksite during a field course. The site reveals footprints from multiple dinosaur species moving together. Ceratopsians, ankylosaurs, and even small predators left their prints in the same direction.

The team excavated 29 square meters of soft, rocky ground. They uncovered 13 clear ceratopsian tracks walking in a loose line. A probable ankylosaurid was walking among them. One small carnivore print also appeared, slightly apart from the group.

This is the first sign of multi-species dinosaur herds in the park. The area is famous for bones, not footprints, making the find even more valuable. It suggests the dinosaurs may have behaved like modern herd animals.

Tyrannosaurs may have stalked the group

Two large tyrannosaur tracks were also found nearby. These predators appeared to walk side by side, not behind the herd. Their path crossed the others at a sharp angle.

Researchers believe the herd may have grouped together for safety. The idea of dinosaurs forming herds to avoid predators is gaining strength. Still, experts say more proof is needed to confirm this theory.

Dr. Brian Pickles of the University of Reading led the study. He called the discovery thrilling and said it offers rare insight into dinosaur behaviour. Dr. Caleb Brown from the Royal Tyrrell Museum added that such finds show how much remains to be learnt.

More tracks may lie hidden nearby

The team has already spotted more tracksites using new methods. These will be explored in future digs across the park’s landscape. The discovery highlights how footprints can fill the gaps bones leave behind.

Dr. Phil Bell from the University of New England had walked the park for years. But it was only in 2024 that a muddy ridge caught his eye. He said the prints looked like someone had stepped in soft mud—and never left.

With each new step in the rock, scientists get closer to understanding how dinosaurs lived, travelled, and maybe even protected each other in ancient times.