Tenontosaurus
Order: Ornithischia · Suborder: Ornithopoda
Found in the western and southwestern United States, Tenontosaurus was a large plant-eater that resembled Iguanodon. Its tail was stiffened by ossified tendons that reinforced the tail vertebrae providing balance for its bipedal stance. Like some otherornithopods, Tenontosaurus probably dropped to all fours when browsing. Because the teeth of Deinonychus have been found inthe vicinity of Tenontosaurus remains, it is thought that Tenontosaurusmight have been Deinonychus' prey.
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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 Tenontosaurus mean?
The name Tenontosaurus means “Sinew Lizard”. It is pronounced teh-NON-tuh-SAWR-us.
When did Tenontosaurus live?
Tenontosaurus lived during the Early Cretaceous.
Was Tenontosaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Tenontosaurus was a herbivore.
How big was Tenontosaurus?
Tenontosaurus was about 23 feet (7.0 meters) long, around 13 feet (4 meters) tall, weighing up to 4,000 pounds (1,814 kg).
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