A team of Italian researchers has discovered fossilised dinosaur footprints near Baunei in Ogliastra, Sardinia. The find happened by chance during the filming of a nature documentary. The tracks date back about 165 million years to the Middle Jurassic period. This marks the first confirmed dinosaur evidence from the Mesozoic era on the island.
The discovery was led by researchers Antonio Assorgia, Sergio Ginesu, and Stefania Sias. They say the footprints belong to a bipedal theropod that once walked across marshy, tidal flats made of sand and mud. Scientists shared the news at a press conference, calling the find a major scientific breakthrough.
First Dinosaur Evidence from Mesozoic Sardinia
Until now, Sardinia had no solid proof of dinosaur activity from the Mesozoic era. That changed when the research team stumbled upon the tracks in coastal rock formations shaped by ancient tides. These prints give new insight into the island’s past, revealing that it once supported a variety of species.
Paleontologist Stefania Salis, who first saw the prints, nicknamed the dinosaur “Bibi.” She suspects the dinosaur may have been female, though further study is needed to confirm its sex and species.
“This is more than a footprint. It’s a direct link to a world that no longer exists,” Salis said.
What the Footprints Reveal
Marco Zedda, a paleontologist involved in the study, examined the size and shape of the prints. He said the lack of visible claw marks suggests the dinosaur may have been herbivorous. The tracks also confirm the creature walked on two legs. Zedda estimates it was between 120 and 160 centimeters in length.
“Footprints can tell us a lot,” Zedda explained. “They reveal how the animal moved, its weight, and even some clues about its behavior.”
These findings help scientists recreate the environment that existed in Sardinia millions of years ago. The area, now part of the island’s scenic coastline, was once a lush wetland teeming with life.
Discovery During Documentary Filming
Francesco Ginesu, head of the production company MGB, shared how the discovery unfolded. The crew was filming a documentary when they noticed unusual patterns in the rock.
“We weren’t looking for dinosaurs,” Ginesu said. “But science often works this way — one unexpected find can change everything.”
He described the moment as a turning point not only for Sardinian science but for European paleontology as a whole. According to Ginesu, the footprints are not just scientific data — they are proof that dinosaurs once roamed the region.
A Window Into Prehistoric Life
The researchers say they will continue to study the site. They hope to learn more about the type of dinosaur that made the tracks and the ecosystem it lived in. The discovery has already sparked interest from universities and museums across Europe.
Experts say the prints provide solid evidence of dinosaur activity in Sardinia, where such findings were once considered unlikely. The team’s work highlights how field research, local knowledge, and a bit of luck can lead to historic results.
“This find confirms Sardinia’s value not just for its beauty, but also for its scientific importance,” said team member Sergio Ginesu.
Scientists plan to conduct more surveys in the area to uncover more tracks or fossil remains. They will also use 3D scans and imaging tools to better understand the size, speed, and movement of the dinosaur.
This discovery is expected to boost both tourism and scientific interest in the region. Local officials have already expressed support for preserving the site and promoting it as a paleontological attraction.