In Dinosaur Encounters, two life-sized juvenile dinosaur puppets — a 14-foot Tyrannosaurus rex and a 9-foot Triceratops – roam the halls of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.

To create Dinosaur Encounters, Museum paleontologists collaborated with puppet fabricators and performers to bring the dinosaurs to “life,” while still ensuring authentic detail and movement. These amazingly realistic creatures help us better understand dinosaur behavior, anatomy and survival tactics.

Although the presentations are educational, there is also an experiential component to Dinosaur Encounters. In programs so far, children have talked to, danced with, and pet the dinosaurs – and the photo and video opportunities are endless.

Back on September 24, 2008, the Dinosaur Encounters puppets perform:

Wednesday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Saturday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.

Shows take place in the North American Mammal Hall, located on the second floor.

“Dinosaur Encounters” is FREE with Museum admission.

Already planning to see “Walking With Dinosaurs”? Save your ticket stub and bring it to the Museum for $3 off general adult admission. Offer good through December 31, 2008.