Dryptosaurus (Tearing lizard)
Drip-toe-sore-us
Othniel Charles Marsh - 1877 (Originally named by Edward Drinker Cope in 1866 as Laelaps aquilunguis)
Carnivore
Estimated 6.5- 7.5 meters long
Large Theropod
D. aquilunguis (type)
USA
Late Cretaceous, 67-66 million years ago
Dryptosaurus Facts
Dryptosaurus, meaning “tearing lizard,” is a genus of theropod dinosaur that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 67 to 66 million years ago, in what is now North America.
Dryptosaurus was a large and fearsome predator, with powerful jaws and sharp teeth that were adapted for tearing flesh. It had long, muscular legs and a long tail, which helped it balance and move quickly through its environment. Its arms were relatively short and had three-fingered hands with sharp claws.
The discovery of Dryptosaurus has provided important insights into the evolution and behavior of theropod dinosaurs during the Late Cretaceous period. Its physical characteristics suggest that it was well adapted for hunting and killing other dinosaurs and possibly other large animals.
Despite its fearsome appearance, relatively few fossils of Dryptosaurus have been found, making it a relatively poorly known dinosaur. Nonetheless, it remains a fascinating and important species for scientists and dinosaur enthusiasts alike, offering important clues into the complex ecosystems and evolutionary processes of the Late Cretaceous period.
