MOBILE, Ala. — The first dinosaur in the Gulf Coast Exploreum’s upcoming Dinosaurs Downtown exhibit has arrived, and is in need of a name. The Exploreum has launched the “Name a Dino” contest, inviting the public to pick a name for the coast’s new baby Tyrannosaurus rex, who is now on display at the science center.

A fast-runner and deadly predator, the Tyrannosaurus rex is the most well-known dinosaur and one of the largest land carnivores of all time.

Tyrannosaurus means “tyrant lizard” and rex means “king” in Latin.

Participants are encouraged to use this description of the dinosaur and to be creative in name selections.

Individuals may pick up an entry form at the Exploreum, or may submit an e-mail that includes the reason the name was chosen and their contact info to nameadino@gmail.com.

Entries will be accepted through Dec. 4. Once the entry period closes, the Exploreum will post five names for public voting online at www.exploreum.com from Dec. 15–Jan. 12.

The individual whose name receives the most votes will be awarded a Standard Family Membership and four free tickets to experience Dinosaurs Downtown, which opens Jan. 16. The winner will also have his or her name posted with the baby T-rex during the exhibit.

“This contest is a great way for the public to get involved as we prepare to open the exhibit,” said Marketing Director Hela Sheth. “Dinosaurs Downtown will be an interactive, full-sensory experience for the entire family. I’m excited to learn the name of our new baby dinosaur.”

For more information about the Gulf Coast Exploreum, visit www.exploreum.com.