Alvarezsaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Tetanurae · Family: Alvarezsauridae
Discovered in Neuquen, Argentina, the remains of Alvarezsaurus did not include a skull or forelimbs. A small animal, it was lightly built with long legs, suggesting that it could run quickly. One odd characteristic of this genus is the lack of spines on the neck vertebrae. Some scientists believe Alvarezsaurus is related to the Mongolian Mononychus.
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Reference background: Natural History Museum, London — Dinosaurs; Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History — Dinosaurs; American Museum of Natural History — Dinosaurs & Fossils. Figures are typical published ranges; taxonomy follows the source era and modern consensus is noted where it differs. See our sources & fact-check policy.
Frequently asked questions
What does Alvarezsaurus mean?
The name Alvarezsaurus means “Alvarez”. It is pronounced AL-vuh-rez-SAWR-us.
When did Alvarezsaurus live?
Alvarezsaurus lived during the Late Cretaceous.
Was Alvarezsaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Alvarezsaurus was a carnivore.
How big was Alvarezsaurus?
Alvarezsaurus was about 4.6 feet (1.4 meters) long, around 2 feet (0.6 meters) tall, weighing up to 6.6 lbs (3 kg).
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