Deinonychus
Pronunciation: dye-NON-i-kus
Deinonychus antirrhopus
“counterbalancing terrible claw”
Deinonychus is known for the “terrible claw” situated on the second toe of each of its feet. Five inches long and sickle-shaped, the claw was used for self-defense and hunting. When not in use, the whole toe was flipped back and pointed upward.
Similar to its smaller relative Velociraptor, Deinonychus had razor-sharp teeth, grasping hands and probably feathers.
Where found: North America
Geologic time frame: Early Cretaceous, 115 – 108 million years ago
Diet: carnivore
Habitat: forests, swamps
Weight: 160 – 220 lbs
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The Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., caring for over 3,000 animals, with nearly 400 species represented, including many threatened/endangered species.
Plan your visit today!
The Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., caring for over 3,000 animals, with nearly 400 species represented, including many threatened/endangered species.
