AI Cracks Dinosaur Footprint Mystery

Identifying the specific dinosaur responsible for fossilized footprints has long been a challenge for paleontologists. Now, artificial intelligence is being harnessed to provide an objective method for this task. Researchers developed an AI algorithm that analyzes eight distinct features of footprints to pinpoint the likely dinosaur trackmaker.

This innovative approach aims to reduce the reliance on subjective human interpretation, a common issue in paleontology for generations. The AI was trained on 1,974 footprint silhouettes spanning 150 million years of dinosaur history. Key features analyzed include overall load, toe spread, heel position, and shape discrepancies.

The AI's analysis has yielded intriguing results, including validation of prior findings regarding seven small, three-toed footprints from South Africa, approximately 210 million years old. These tracks closely resemble those of birds, even though they predate the earliest known avian fossils by 60 million years. This suggests a potential link to early bird ancestors or dinosaurs with bird-like feet.

It is important to note that the shape of a dinosaur footprint can be influenced by various factors beyond the animal itself, such as the dinosaur's activity (walking, running, jumping), substrate moisture, burial, and erosion over millions of years. This variability means the same dinosaur can leave very different-looking tracks.