Caenagnathus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Tetanurae (not confirmed) · Family: Caenagnathidae
When first discovered, its remains suggested a more primitive animal than Chirostenotes; and thus it should have been an earlier species. However, current theory holds thatCaenagnathus, Macrophalangia and some material referred toElmisaurus are all probably Chirostenotes.
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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 Caenagnathus mean?
The name Caenagnathus means “Recent Jaw”. It is pronounced SEE-nig-NAY-thus.
When did Caenagnathus live?
Caenagnathus lived during the Late Cretaceous.
Was Caenagnathus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Caenagnathus was a carnivore.
How big was Caenagnathus?
Caenagnathus was about 6.6 feet (2 meters) long.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Caenagnathidae family.
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