Protoceratops, a genus of small, herbivorous ceratopsian dinosaurs, is renowned for its fossil evidence supporting complex herd behavior. Discovered primarily in Mongolia, these "first horned faces" lived during the Late Cretaceous and are characterized by their distinctive frills and lack of prominent horns seen in later ceratopsians. Fossilized bone beds containing multiple individuals, including juveniles, indicate that Protoceratops traveled in cohesive family groups, suggesting social structures similar to those of some modern herbivorous mammals. This herd behavior would have provided protection against predators and enhanced foraging efficiency, marking an important evolutionary step in dinosaur social dynamics.
- Protoceratops were early ceratopsian dinosaurs known for their distinctive frills.
- Fossil evidence shows they lived and moved in herds, including adults and juveniles.
- Herd behavior likely offered benefits such as predator protection and efficient foraging.