BUAP researchers discover new dinosaur footprints in Puebla

Researchers from the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP) have discovered four new fossilized dinosaur footprints in the southeastern region of Puebla, Mexico. The findings, located in the San Juan Raya Formation, date back approximately 132 million years to the Cretaceous period.

The discovery includes three footprints from theropods (bipedal carnivores) and one from a sauropod (long-necked dinosaur). Notably, one theropod footprint measures only seven centimeters in length, representing the smallest dinosaur footprint recorded in the state to date. Based on these dimensions, experts estimate the individual stood about 30 centimeters tall and weighed approximately two kilograms.

The team also identified a sauropod footprint with an unusual circular morphology and three claw impressions. The tracks were found in the El Salitrillo ravine in Santa Ana Teloxtoc and the Magdalena River in San Martín Atexcal. Researchers noted that the tracks indicate the animals were walking through the area rather than running.