Therizinosaurus
Pronunciation: ther-uh-ZEE-noh-SAWR-us
Therizinosaurus cheloniformis
“turtle-formed reaping lizard”
Like a dinosaur version of Freddy Krueger, Therizinosaurus had the longest claws ever recorded on any animal, reaching up to three feet. But unlike Freddy, its claws were not just used as weapons.
In addition to self-defense, Therizinosaurus used its claws when eating to grab and pull leaves and fruit, and possibly to dig for tubers and roots.
Where found: Mongolia
Geologic time frame: Late Cretaceous, 72 – 66 million years ago
Diet: herbivore
Habitat: forests, floodplains
Weight: 3.3 – 5.5 tons
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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.
