Deinocheirus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda
Only a pair of arms belonging to Deinocheirus have been discovered in southern Mongolia. These arms were very long -- 8 feet (2.4 meters) -- and their hands accounted for 2 feet (0.6 meters)of the length. The three fingered hands were equipped with formidable,8 - 11 inch (20 - 30 cm), hook-like claws. Deinocheirus may have used these spectacular claws to attack and kill prey, but it has also been suggested that it used them for climbing trees. Some scientists believe that Deinocheirus may be a large Ornithomimosaur.
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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 Deinocheirus mean?
The name Deinocheirus means “Terrible Hand”. It is pronounced dye-nuh-KYE-rus.
When did Deinocheirus live?
Deinocheirus lived during the Late Cretaceous.
Was Deinocheirus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Deinocheirus was a carnivore.
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