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Dino "Sue" -- an exact replica of the largest, most complete Tyrannosaurus
rex fossil ever unearthed -- is Disney's newest (and oldest) "cast"
member in DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
The replica of Sue, which was excavated in the Black Hills of South
Dakota in 1990, is on display at the entrance to DINOSAUR, a high-speed
thrill attraction that sends guests back to the age of the dinosaurs.
Named after fossil hunter Sue Hendrickson, the 67-million-year-old
skeleton is one of the most famous fossils of the century because
it adds tremendous information to what little is known about the
species.
Some other fossil facts about Dino Sue:
Scientists estimate Sue was about 45 feet long, stood nearly 14
feet tall and weighed between five and seven tons.
Chicago's Field Museum purchased the skeleton at public auction
in 1997 with financial support from Walt Disney World Resort, McDonald's
Corporation, the California State University system, and private
individuals.
Following its discovery, paleontologists from The Field Museum
began work on preparing the bones for eventual exhibit in Chicago.
A large part of the bonework was actually done "on-stage" and in
front of guests at Disney's Animal Kingdom by a three-member team
from the museum.
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