Latenivenatrix

Latenivenatrix was a large troodontid theropod that roamed the subtropical floodplains of Alberta, Canada, during the Late Cretaceous period. Erected in 2017 to reclassify exceptional specimens long assigned to the problematic genus Troodon, it proved that troodontids could reach sizes comparable to large dromaeosaurs. Measuring up to three and a half metres in length, Latenivenatrix had exceptionally long legs built for sustained running. Its skull possessed enlarged orbit cavities and an expansive brain cavity, indicating acute stereoscopic vision, keen hearing, and high intelligence. Troodontids were equipped with large, closely spaced serrations on their teeth, pointing to an opportunistic omnivorous or carnivorous diet that included small mammals, reptiles, and perhaps plant material. Though some researchers suggest it may represent a synonym of Stenonychosaurus, its distinctive pelvic and cranial details mark an impressive carnivore.

It represents the largest known troodontid dinosaur, standing well over a metre tall at the hips.

Where and when

Latenivenatrix lived in the Late Cretaceous, from 76.5 to 74.5 million years ago (Campanian age). Its remains come from Canada, in the Dinosaur Park Formation.

The numbers

Length 3.3 m (estimates run from 3 to 3.5 m). Mass about 45 kg. Hip height about 1.2 m. That is 1.9 human-lengths, or 0.29 of a double-decker bus. These are estimates from partial skeleton; fields marked estimated by the site are length, mass, hip height.

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