Geology 104DN - Introduction to Geology and Physical Geography: 'Dinosaurs'

The first dinosaur fossils recognized in North America were footprints found in South Hadley. One of the most ancient dinosaur species in the United States was discovered close to campus. In this course we will learn the main types of non-avian dinosaurs, compare them to other ancient and modern vertebrates, and explore their physiology and their relationship to birds. To complete the final project, students will select a dinosaur species and study its geological age, geographic distribution, burial conditions, environmental preferences, ecological roles, feeding and reproductive strategies, and body form as they review the history of attempts to reconstruct their adopted dinosaur.