Protoceratops is a herbivorous dinosaur that lived during the Cretaceous period, approximately 75 million years ago. It was of moderate size, with a length of around 2 meters and a ceratopsian-like appearance, with a horny beak and characteristic ruff on the back of its head.
In spring, female Protoceratops look for a suitable place to nest and lay their eggs. They usually choose sheltered and hidden areas, such as sand dunes or rocky areas. Once they find a safe place, they dig a shallow hole in the ground and lay several eggs in it.
When a female Protoceratops finishes laying her eggs, her maternal instinct leads her to stay close to the nest to protect them. The Protoceratops mother is especially vigilant during this period, as the eggs are extremely vulnerable to predators and other threats.
If a predator or threatening creature approaches the nest, the female Protoceratops takes a defensive posture. Her posture includes raising her head and extending her clawed arms in an attempt to intimidate the intruder. Furthermore, she can make threatening sounds and show an aggressive attitude to drive away the enemy.
Although Protoceratops lacks the characteristic large horns and gorget of other larger ceratopsians, its protective attitude and defensive abilities are enough to deter most predators. However, if the enemy persists in trying to get close to her, the female Protoceratops will not hesitate to use her sharp claws to fight and defend the eggs from her.
The female Protoceratops will stand guard near the nest until the eggs hatch and the little dinosaurs hatch. At that time, she will begin a new life cycle for the young, and the mother will take care of protecting and feeding her offspring while they grow and gain strength to face the outside world.
Approximate measurements of Protoceratops:
- 1:35 scale - 50 mm long
- 1:20 scale - 85mm long
