Stegosaurus had a double row of spines (also called plates) running down its back. The plates may have been for the purpose of attracting a mate; or a defense mechanism to make the dinosaur look larger and fiercer; or a device to help it gain or lose body heat.

Stegosaurus had long, heavy spikes at the tip of its tail. When the tail was swung back and forth, the spikes were a defense mechanism.

For its huge size (11 feet tall at the hips and 30 feet long), the plant-eating Stegosaurus had a very small head. Its front legs were shorter than its back legs. Its feet were wide and strong- very useful for supporting the animal's great weight. Most likely, Stegosaurus moved very slowly.

                                                            Stegosaurus