Dinosaurs had reptile-like intelligence, not T-rex’s level, study reveals

A recent study examining the size and structure of dinosaur brains has shed new light on their intelligence. Scientists have concluded that dinosaurs had intelligence comparable to reptiles, contrary to previous research suggesting that Tyrannosaurus rex was highly intelligent. This international research, involving the University of Bristol in Britain, found that dinosaurs likely behaved more like crocodiles and lizards than baboons in terms of intelligence.

The study specifically looked at the size and structure of dinosaur brains to draw these conclusions. Last year, research from Vanderbilt University in the US suggested that Tyrannosaurus rex had a higher level of intelligence than previously believed, based on the number of neurons in its brain. However, a new study published in The Anatomical Record in April refutes these claims by stating that the size of dinosaur brains and number of neurons were overestimated.

The research team emphasizes the importance of considering other factors such as skeletal anatomy and the behavior of living relatives when determining cognitive abilities. They caution against misleading interpretations that may arise from equating the number of neurons with intelligence.

In conclusion, this recent study suggests that Tyrannosaurus rex was likely more similar to intelligent giant crocodiles than highly intelligent baboons. The research highlights the complexities of assessing the intelligence of dinosaurs and underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach when studying cognitive abilities in extinct species.