Triceratops

Hailing from the renowned **Hell Creek Formation** of **Late Cretaceous** North America, *Triceratops* is among the largest of the ceratopsian dinosaurs—reaching 9 blocks long and weighing 9 metric tons.

It is by far the most ubiquitous species of Hell Creek, and can most commonly be found in the *Clearings*—although to avoid competition where *Ankylosaurus* are established, it is rather uncommon in the highlands of the *Liriodendrites Bluffs*.

## Feeding

The numerous large teeth of *Triceratops* are used to eat great amounts of fibrous plant material, especially ferns and palms such as *Osmunda* and *Sabalites*.

*Triceratops* sometimes tackle and knock down various plants, including large trees, placing their legs on both sides and using their weight and sheer bulk to push the end of the plant down to the level of their mouth. Mothers also use this technique to make high up leaves reachable for their young.

## Defense

Although primarily ornamental, the most obvious weapons of *Triceratops* are the horns borne by both males and females, often using their massive heads as battering rams against any sufficiently large threats—foremostly *Tyrannosaurus*. To avoid being bitten around its vulnerable neck, *Triceratops* raises its head and orients its horns upward, using its frill to shield the neck from above.

*Triceratops* respond to the distress calls of threatened herd members and attempt to rescue them from danger. A juvenile's call catches the attention of not only the mother, but also the entire herd—engaging in mobbing behavior to fight off predators. Herd members can often be seen chasing furtive *Dakotaraptor* up trees—keeping them there for hours, away from their young. And as even an individual *Triceratops* may be powerful enough to kill a *Tyrannosaurus*, a small herd is formidable enough to frighten a lone *Tyrannosaurus* away.

## *Ancient Journal Entry*

*Day 12:*

*After a good while of further exploration in the more lightly wooded areas, I’ve found what seems to be Triceratops!*

*These giants were grazing around in the fern-covered underbrush, I didn’t want to go too close, as I’d expect them to act territorial, since I’ve spotted infants in the small group.*

*I also spotted some Thescelosaurus stick around the group, possibly seeking shelter from the local predators.*

*Day 37:*

*After a long time of research and wait, I finally had the chance to steal a triceratops egg, which I placed in a comfortable pillow made out of dried ferns and horsetails. I waited weeks for it to hatch and it worked! The infant was tiny, and differed from its adult counterparts greatly. I made sure it would feed normally and grow up to be healthy and strong.*

*Day 67:*

*I’ve been eagerly waiting to try to mount my good friend. It’s been a long time and it’s been growing quickly. I made a saddle out of Didelphodon hide, since the keratinous back wouldn’t make up for a comfortable seat.*

*On my way to hunt some Didelphodon, I’ve found a Triceratops carcass. It was Very peculiar, as I spotted bite marks and teeth of a young Tyrannosaurus. I would guess this big one died of natural causes. Either way, I cut off its horns, maybe I can use them for something…*

*After I acquired the pelts and stitched them together, I was ready to hitch a ride on my new dangerous “pet”.*