- Topic
- Paleontology
Velociraptor
Velociraptor was a genus of theropod dinosaur that lived during the late Cretaceous period, around 75 to 71 million years ago. Despite its portrayal in popular culture, Velociraptor was not as large as depicted in movies like “Jurassic Park.” In reality, it was about the size of a turkey, with adults reaching lengths of up to 6.8 feet (2.1 meters) and standing about 1.6 feet (0.5 meters) tall at the hip.
Velociraptor was characterized by its long, curved claws on its hind limbs, which it likely used for hunting and capturing prey. It had feathers covering its body, providing insulation and possibly playing a role in display or communication. The sleek and agile build of Velociraptor, along with its sharp teeth, suggests it was a carnivorous predator.
It is believed that Velociraptor hunted in packs, as evidenced by the discovery of multiple individuals found together in fossilized formations. This social behavior is also supported by the presence of larger and smaller individuals within the same group, suggesting different age groups.
Fossils of Velociraptor have been found in Mongolia and China, with the most famous specimen being the “fighting dinosaurs,” which depicts a Velociraptor engaged in combat with a Protoceratops. This remarkable fossil provides valuable insights into the behavior and anatomy of Velociraptor.