The tuatara, Sphendon punctatus, is not now, nor has it ever been a dinosuar. It is considered a 'living fossil' because it is the only surviving member of a distinct reptilian order Sphehodontia that lived alongside early dinosaurs, and separated from other reptiles 200 million years ago in the Upper Triassic period. Like the coelecanth, it has evolved somewhat, but still remains true to the original order.

Quote Originally Posted by EdD View Post
Kirk,
There are some people feverishly trying to save the last dinosaur, the Tuatara of new Zealand. I don't know about now, but back in the 70's is was officially considered the last dinosaur.

Ed