After thousands of years, scientists have finally discovered the reason why the Mayans vanished

A NEW SPECIES OF DINOSAUR HAS BEEN FOUND ON THE ISLAND OF WIGHT 

Witness the astonishing discovery of Vectipelta Barretti! It is not a magical incantation from the realm of Harry Potter but rather a newly unearthed dinosaur species on the Isle of Wight. Rest assured, there is no need to fret about a Jurassic Park-like scenario because this dinosaur species has long vanished. The remarkable find took place at the Wessex Formation site on the Isle of Wight, a treasure trove that dates back to the Early Cretaceous period, spanning an incredible time range from 145 to 66 million years ago.

Ankylosaurs, known for their short and robust limbs, are a group of herbivorous dinosaurs. Vectipelta Barretti belongs to this group, as revealed by an extensive study published in the Journal of Systematic Palaeontology. This new species was aptly named in honor of Professor Paul Barret's contributions to the Natural History Museum. While Vectipelta Barretti possessed an armored body, it stood out with distinct neck and back bones compared to its contemporaries. Further analysis unveiled an abundance of spiky armor, setting it apart.

Experts in the field have noted a strong resemblance between this new species and several Chinese ankylosaurs, suggesting their migration between Asia and Europe during the Early Cretaceous period. The discovery of Vectipelta Barretti follows the remarkable find of Polacanthus Foxii, an armored dinosaur species first identified on the Isle of Wight back in 1865.

Stuart Pond, a researcher at the Natural History Museum, expressed enthusiasm for the recent discovery, stating, "For approximately 142 years, all ankylosaur bones found on the Isle of Wight were attributed to Polacanthus Foxii. Now, with the description of this new species, it is crucial to reevaluate those previous findings. This specimen holds great significance as it sheds light on the diversity of ankylosaurs within the Wessex Formation and Early Cretaceous England."

Professor Barret, upon hearing that the dinosaur species would bear his name, expressed gratitude and delight, saying, "I am truly honored and absolutely thrilled to be recognized in this way. It holds extra significance for me, as my very first published work also revolved around an armored dinosaur in the museum's collection." He playfully added, "I'm certain any physical resemblance is purely coincidental."

The research team behind this remarkable discovery considers the Wessex Formation a highly valuable resource for understanding the events leading to the extinction of dinosaurs. It serves as a vital window into the past, providing invaluable insights into the history and fate of these extraordinary creatures.