Theropod tails: getting the (not) skinny

The reconstruction of dinosaurs is a tricky business and artists really need to do their research when it comes to making sure they are using the most up-to-date and accurate science to base their art on. This has just been made that bit easier by W. Scott Persons who has been working on new data (along with  Dr. Phil Currie) on the musculature of theropod tails and their correct representation in reconstructions. He has written an superb article for artists and comes complete with an tail anatomy 101 and informative diagrams and pictures. Persons describes it all better than I ever could so head over and take a look: blogevolved.blogspot.com

We are certainly entering an interesting age with respect of the reconstruction of dinosaurs. There is a pronounced trend away from the shrink-wrapped bony dinosaurs of recent years and a move towards more bulked-out beasts. Excellent articles such as this are most welcome to those of us attempting to depict these wonderful animals. Well done sirs!