3. Borealopelta (and all ankylosaurs)
Few armored dinosaurs loom quite as large as the ankylosaurs and nodosaurs, animals known for their intense dorsal plating. They’re absolutely badass, and among those animals Borealopelta markmitchelli is the standout. The type specimen of this species is a ridiculously well-preserved individual from what is now Alberta, Canada, an individual whose last meal was a combination of moss, ferns, and flowering plants.
Ankylosaurs in general have hardcore anatomies. A recently named species, Spicomellus afer, had spikes that sprouted directly out of its ribcage. It would’ve made a tricky meal for any predator. My hat is off to the ankylosaurs, who made defense look way cooler than offense.
