Aquilops americanus Hits the Big Screen in Jurassic World
A tiny but mighty dinosaur is making a giant splash in Jurassic World: Rebirth, the latest chapter in the iconic Jurassic Park franchise. The film imagines a world where humans and dinosaurs coexist after the collapse of the dinosaur theme park that once tried to contain them, introducing new species alongside stars like Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey. Among the standout newcomers is Dolores, a young Aquilops portrayed as clever, curious, and unexpectedly brave — earning a special place in fans’ hearts.
Though the blockbuster is fictionalized, Dolores was inspired by the real Aquilops americanus, first discovered and described by researchers from the Sam Noble Museum. This small dinosaur lived over 100 million years ago and is known from a single fossilized skull now housed in the museum’s Hall of Ancient Life for the public to experience.
With the film’s release, Aquilops has found new fame, appearing on Dr. Pepper cans, as a LEGO toy, and across pop culture. The Sam Noble Museum — the only place in the world to see the real Aquilops americanus fossil — invites you to discover the science behind the star! Be sure to join us on July 19 for a special celebration of our newest celebrity, Aquilops Day!
Meet the Real Aquilops
Before it was a movie icon, Aquilops americanus was a key puzzle piece in the story of early North American dinosaurs. Discovered in Montana in 1997 and officially described in 2014, Aquilops lived around 109 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period. The fossil—not even the size of a fist—is the only one of its kind and is carefully preserved here at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.
Named by paleontologists Andrew Farke, W. Desmond Maxwell, Richard Cifelli, and Matt Wedel, Aquilops helped scientists better understand how horned dinosaurs migrated across ancient continents. The skull’s rarity and scientific value have made it both a research icon and, now, a pop culture favorite.
Curious to know more? We have a dedicated page with fascinating details about Aquilops’ discovery, what makes it unique, and insights from the scientists who brought the
fossil to light. Dive in!
Experience Aquilops at the Museum
The Aquilops adventure doesn’t end in theaters — it continues right here at the museum. Throughout July, bring proof you’ve seen Jurassic World: Rebirth (ticket stub or digital receipt) and get 20% off your admission.
Visit the Aquilops exhibit to learn more about the real dinosaur behind the movie and snap a fun photo to share. You’ll get a chance to see the only Aquilops americanus fossil in the world — right here in Oklahoma!
We’re especially honored that the City of Norman officially proclaimed July 2–8 as “Natural History Week” in celebration of Aquilops’ big-screen debut and the museum’s 25th anniversary. You can read the full proclamation here. Don’t forget to join us on July 19 for Aquilops Day, a special in-museum celebration of this mighty little dinosaur!
Make it a full day of discovery by exploring our other fascinating exhibits while you’re here. Don’t forget your limited-edition Aquilops t-shirts, LEGO kits, and other amazing gifts from the Excavations gift shop.
Every purchase supports the museum and helps us bring science to life.
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