In brief
Recently discovered in the Stelvio National Park, these dinosaur footprints provide a glimpse into the past, showcasing the movement patterns and possible social behaviors of prosauropods. Detailing the discovery, experts express excitement about this unique site that once formed a tidal flat during the Triassic period.
Thousands of dinosaur footprints dating back 210 million years have been discovered in a national park in northern Italy. The footprints - some up to 40cm in diameter - are arranged in parallel lines, showcasing clear traces of toes and claws.
Experts suggest these remnants are from prosauropods, long-necked herbivore dinosaurs. I never would have imagined coming across such a spectacular discovery in the region where I live, remarked Milan-based paleontologist Cristiano Dal Sasso.
Photographed last September, the footprints are located on a vertical mountain wall in the Stelvio National Park, north-east of Milan. During the Triassic period, this area was a tidal flat, now transformed into part of the Alpine mountains.
According to Dal Sasso, the footprints indicate more than mere movement; they show complex behaviors such as potential group gatherings for defense. The discovery underlines the area's significance, where herds of these magnificent creatures once roamed.
The prosauropods could grow up to 10m long and exhibit behaviors like resting on their forelimbs, reflected in the found handprints. Elio Della Ferrera, who spotted the footprints, expressed hope that this discovery would encourage deeper reflection about our understanding of local natural history.
Due to its remote location, advanced technology like drones will assist in further exploration. The Stelvio National Park, situated in the Fraele Valley near the Swiss border, will now see a blend of the ancient and current, coinciding with upcoming events such as the Winter Olympics.
