A Fascinating New Species Uncovered!

In an exhilarating twist of paleontological discovery, scientists have unveiled a newly found dinosaur, reminiscent of the goblin prince Bolg from J.R.R. Tolkien's classic, *The Hobbit*. This pint-sized armored creature, akin to the size of a raccoon, was unearthed at the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in southern Utah.

A Remarkable Discovery Behind Closed Doors!

Dr. Hank Woolley, a noted paleontologist at the Dinosaur Institute within the Natural History Museum of Utah, made this groundbreaking find while rummaging through a jar of bones casually labeled 'lizard.' The remnants of this intriguing species were pieced together from a collection of fragmentary bones, including tiny skull fragments, vertebrae, and limb bones, all adorned with distinctive bony armor known as osteoderms.

Why the Name 'Bolg Amondol'?

Woolley was determined to find an apt name for this new species and immediately thought of the goblin prince Bolg, likening the lizard's skull shape to that of goblins. In a nod to Tolkien's rich universe, he opted to construct the species name 'Bolg amondol' using the fictional Elvish language Sindarin; where 'amon' translates to 'mound' and 'dol' means 'head,' aptly reflecting the mound-like features observed on Bolg's skull and those of its relatives.

A Fantasy Turned Reality!

This naming not only celebrates Tolkien's legacy but also draws a unique connection between literature and paleontology, showcasing how imagination can inspire scientific exploration. The Bolg amondol is a testament to the wonders that lie hidden in the Earth, waiting to be discovered.

What Lies Ahead?

As the excitement around this discovery grows, paleontologists are eager to uncover more about the ecology and behavior of this fascinating creature. Who knew that in the world of dinosaurs, the spirit of Tolkien reigns supreme?