World First: Dinosaur Found on Fossilized Eggs with Babies Inside!

The dinosaur was found crouched over the nest of at least 24 fossilized eggs in a brooding or protective posture. This suggests the dinosaur died while brooding or protecting its babies. But when the researchers used oxygen isotope analysis on the eggs, they found that they had been incubated at high, bird-like temperatures, which supports the belief that the adult more likely died while brooding its nest.

At least seven of the fossilized eggs still contain the remains of unhatched oviraptorid embryos. Based on the development of the sources, the scientists think that some of the eggs were on the verge of hatching. According to Dr. Lamanna, “This dinosaur was a caring parent that ultimately gave its life while nurturing its young.”

Sources: ancient-origins.net