Mozilla (mascot)

The Mozilla mascot is a stylized red dinosaur, initially intended to be a Godzilla-like monster, representing the defeat of Netscape Navigator's browser rivals, particularly Microsoft Internet Explorer. The mascot's name, "Mozilla," is a portmanteau of "Mosaic" (the name of an early web browser) and "Godzilla."

Over time, the mascot's design has evolved, becoming friendlier and less menacing. It has been largely retired from official use by the Mozilla Foundation, in favor of a more modern and abstract logo representing the project's commitment to the open web. While the dinosaur figure is less prominently featured, it remains a recognizable symbol associated with the history of Mozilla and its open-source software projects. It often appears in community-created artwork and remains a symbol of the organization's early history and rebellious spirit. The dinosaur's legacy lives on as a nod to Mozilla's origins and its mission to challenge the status quo.