Noasaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Tetanurae · Family: Noasauridae
Discovered in northwest Argentina, this lightly-built predator had feet with sickle-like claws that could be raised like those of a dromaeosaurid, but by a unique retractor tendon.
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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 Noasaurus mean?
The name Noasaurus means “Northwestern Argentina Lizard”. It is pronounced NO-uh-SAWR-us.
When did Noasaurus live?
Noasaurus lived during the Late Cretaceous.
Was Noasaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Noasaurus was a carnivore.
How big was Noasaurus?
Noasaurus was about 7 feet (2.1 meters) long, around 3 feet (0.9 meters) tall.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Noasauridae family.
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