What Is the Big Dinosaur in the Natural History Museum?

If you’re a fan of prehistoric creatures, then you’ve probably heard of the big dinosaur in the Natural History Museum. This iconic exhibit draws in visitors from all over the world to marvel at its size and beauty.

What is the Big Dinosaur?

The big dinosaur, also known as Dippy, is a Diplodocus skeleton that stands at an impressive 21.3 meters long and 4.25 meters tall. This herbivorous giant lived during the Late Jurassic period, around 156-145 million years ago.

History of Dippy

Dippy’s journey to the Natural History Museum began in 1898 when Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist, gifted the museum with a plaster cast replica of a Diplodocus skeleton. It was originally displayed in the Central Hall until 1934 when it was moved to its current location in the Hintze Hall.

In 2017, after standing tall for over 100 years, Dippy was removed from Hintze Hall to make way for something new. The decision sparked controversy among dinosaur enthusiasts who had grown attached to this iconic exhibit.

What Happened to Dippy?

After much speculation on what would replace Dippy’s spot in Hintze Hall, it was announced that a blue whale skeleton named “Hope” would take center stage. Dippy was then sent on tour around the UK to continue inspiring young minds about natural history.

Dippy Goes on Tour

Dippy’s tour started in early 2018 and has since traveled to various locations across the UK, including Belfast, Birmingham, and Newcastle upon Tyne. The tour is expected to conclude in late 2020 before returning home to the Natural History Museum.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while you may not be able to see the big dinosaur at the Natural History Museum at the moment, you can still catch a glimpse of it on its tour around the UK. Its legacy continues to inspire people of all ages about the world of natural history.