Tooth study shows T. rex was warmblooded, with human-like temperature

Scientists analyzing chemical clues in three Tyrannosaurus rex teeth have concluded the dinosaur was warm-blooded, estimating a body temperature of 97.3°F (36.3°C) with a margin of plus or minus 4.5°F (2.5°C). Researchers say the result, published Wednesday in Science Advances, challenges the outdated view of T. rex as a sluggish reptile. UCLA geoscientist Aradhna Tripati likened thermoregulation to that of animals such as elephants and ostriches rather than crocodiles. The study also argues climate modeling suggests T. rex could have lived across much of North America, including freezing environments, requiring sustained activity and higher food intake.