Ancient dinosaur footprints discovered in Italy’s Stelvio National Park

New Delhi, Dec 19: Thousands of dinosaur footprints dating back nearly 210 million years have been discovered in Stelvio National Park in northern Italy, offering rare insight into life during the Triassic period.

According to a report by the BBC, the footprints, some measuring up to 40 cm in diameter, are spread across a steep mountain wall and are arranged in long, parallel rows.

Many preserve clear impressions of toes and claws. Scientists believe the tracks were left by prosauropods, large, plant-eating dinosaurs with long necks that could grow up to 10 metres in length.

The site was first identified last September by photographer Elio Della Ferrera, who spotted the tracks stretching for hundreds of metres across the rock face.

Palaeontologists say smaller footprints suggest the presence of young dinosaurs within the herds, while occasional handprints indicate the animals may have paused to rest on their forelimbs.

Milan-based palaeontologist Cristiano Dal Sasso described the discovery as an “immense scientific treasure,” noting evidence of coordinated herd movement and possible defensive behaviour.

During the Triassic era, the area is believed to have been a tidal flat before later becoming part of the Alpine mountain chain.

Italy’s Ministry of Culture said the remote site is inaccessible by foot and will be studied using drones and remote-sensing technology.

The park is located near the Swiss border, close to venues for next year’s Winter Olympics, adding to the significance of the find.