Condorraptor facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Condorraptor |
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Condorraptor
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currumili
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Condorraptor (meaning 'robber from Cerro Condor') is a type of meat-eating dinosaur called a theropod. It lived during the Middle Jurassic period, about 170 to 168 million years ago. This dinosaur was found in Argentina, South America.
Condorraptor was one of the first large theropods to live in South America. It was about 4.5 meters (15 feet) long. This is roughly the length of a small car. It weighed around 200 kilograms (440 pounds), which is about the same as two adult people. Condorraptor looks very much like another dinosaur from the same area, called Piatnitzkysaurus.
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What was Condorraptor?
Condorraptor was a genus of Megalosaurid dinosaur. Megalosaurids were a group of large, meat-eating dinosaurs. They were known for their strong legs and sharp teeth. These dinosaurs were active hunters. They likely preyed on other animals of their time.
Where did Condorraptor live?
Fossils of Condorraptor were found in the Cañadón Asfalto Formation in Argentina. This area was once a lush landscape. It had rivers, lakes, and forests. Many different types of plants and animals lived there. The climate was warm and humid.
When did Condorraptor live?
Condorraptor lived during the Middle Jurassic period. This time was part of the larger Jurassic period. The Jurassic period is famous for its giant dinosaurs. It was a time when many new dinosaur groups appeared. The Middle Jurassic lasted from about 174 to 163 million years ago.
How big was Condorraptor?
Condorraptor was a medium-sized theropod. It measured about 4.5 meters (15 feet) from its nose to the tip of its tail. This is similar in size to a modern-day crocodile. It weighed about 200 kilograms (440 pounds). This weight is like that of a large lion.
What did Condorraptor eat?
As a theropod, Condorraptor was a carnivore. This means it ate meat. It likely hunted smaller dinosaurs or other animals. Its sharp teeth and strong jaws helped it catch and eat its prey.
Discovery of Condorraptor
The first fossils of Condorraptor were found in Argentina. The dinosaur was named by Oliver Rauhut in 2005. The name Condorraptor means 'robber from Cerro Condor'. Cerro Condor is the place where its fossils were discovered.
What makes Condorraptor special?
Condorraptor is important because it helps us understand early theropods in South America. It shows how these large predators developed over time. Its discovery gives clues about the dinosaur life in the Middle Jurassic.
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