If you’ve ever visited the Natural History Museum in London, you might have wondered about the name of the dinosaur that greets you at the entrance. This impressive creature has been a popular attraction for decades and draws in visitors from all over the world. In this article, we’ll explore the name and history of this iconic dinosaur.
The Diplodocus
The dinosaur in question is actually a Diplodocus, which was a long-necked herbivorous dinosaur that roamed the earth during the Late Jurassic period, around 150 million years ago. The Diplodocus was first discovered in 1877 by paleontologist S.W. Williston in Colorado, USA.
How Did It Get to the Natural History Museum?
The story behind how the Diplodocus ended up at the Natural History Museum is quite interesting. In 1901, Scottish-American industrialist Andrew Carnegie offered to donate a cast of a Diplodocus skeleton to any European museum that would cover its shipping costs. The Natural History Museum took him up on his offer and raised the necessary funds through public donations.
The cast arrived in London in 1905 and was assembled on site at the museum. The Diplodocus was an instant sensation and quickly became one of the most popular exhibits at the museum.
Why Is It So Popular?
There are several reasons why the Diplodocus is such a popular exhibit at the Natural History Museum. For one, it’s an impressive sight to behold – standing at over 26 meters long, it’s hard not to be awed by its size.
Additionally, dinosaurs have always captured our imaginations as creatures that once ruled the earth but are now extinct. The Diplodocus represents a fascinating glimpse into our planet’s prehistoric past and helps us to better understand how life on earth has evolved over millions of years.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the name of the dinosaur at the Natural History Museum is the Diplodocus. This iconic exhibit has been captivating visitors for over a century and continues to be a must-see attraction for anyone visiting London. Whether you’re a fan of dinosaurs or just looking for an interesting way to spend an afternoon, the Diplodocus is sure to impress.