Herrerasaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Ceratosauria · Family: Herrerasauridae
Found in northwest Argentina, Herrerasaurus is oneof the earliest known dinosaurs, a primitive carnivore. Herrerasaurus had four-toed feet and hip bones with both saurischian and ornithischian features. Its jaws were double-hinged to allow it to scoop large chunks of meat from its prey. Its skeleton was discovered headless and it was 30 years before a skull specimen was found.
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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 Herrerasaurus mean?
The name Herrerasaurus means “Herrera Lizard”. It is pronounced her-RARE-uh-SAWR-us.
When did Herrerasaurus live?
Herrerasaurus lived during the Late Triassic.
Was Herrerasaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Herrerasaurus was a carnivore.
How big was Herrerasaurus?
Herrerasaurus was about 15 feet (4.6 meters) long, around 7 feet (2.1 meters) tall.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Herrerasauridae family.
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