Paleontologists at the University of Alberta have a new theory for why some dinosaurs stood on two feet instead of four.
The researchers found clues in the tails of the ancient creatures’ much smaller ancestors, proto-dinosaurs.
READ MORE: Edmonton researchers help make Jurassic Park-like dinosaur discovery
Lead author Scott Persons said the tails of proto-dinosaurs had big, leg-powering muscles.
Eventually, the ancient creatures evolved to run faster and for longer distances.
READ MORE: Feathered dinosaurs may have ‘flocked’ together like modern birds: University of Alberta study
Meanwhile, smaller forelimbs helped reduce their body weight and improved balance, so some proto-dinosaurs gave up walking on all fours entirely.
Persons said earlier theories that proto-dinosaurs stood on two legs just so they could use their forelimbs to catch prey don’t stand up.
Watch below: Travel Alberta ambassador and blogger Mike Morrison joins Global Calgary with details on some of the many places to see and learn about dinosaurs in the province.