Discovery of the largest known raptor dinosaur in South America

A series of excavations carried out in Patagonia led to the discovery of fossilized bones belonging to a hitherto unknown species of raptor, distinguished by its size and wide chest cavity.

Fearsome prehistoric creatures

In recent years, impressive fossils of prehistoric reptiles have been unearthed in Argentinaincluding that of the largest known land animal and a fearsome dinosaur “ without arms “. Recently described in the journal Scientific Reportsthe megaraptor Maip macrothorax was an apex predator that roamed the Patagonian forests some 70 million years ago.

As their name suggests, the megaraptors were the greatest representatives of this family of iconic dinosaurs, regularly featured in the franchise Jurassic Park. Measuring between 6 and 8 meters long, these were perhaps not as imposing and powerful as other carnivores such as the T. rexbut were arguably even scarier.

Equipped with long thin legs and partially hollow bones giving them extraordinary agility, these prehistoric creatures were born to run. Once abreast of their prey, they grabbed it with their exceptionally strong arms and used their powerful curved claws, up to 35cm long, to carve it.

The shadow of death

Largest species of megaraptor discovered to date, Maip macrothorax measured between 9 and 10 meters long and weighed around 5 tons. The term ” Macrothorax refers to the creature’s impressive chest cavity (measuring just over four feet wide), while ” Maip is the name of an evil spirit in the mythology of the local indigenous people.

” For the Tehuelches, Maip represented the shadow of death, which we thought was appropriate for this gigantic and fearsome Cretaceous creature. “, Explain Mauro Aranciaga Rolandolead author of the study.

Started in 2019, the excavations that led to the discovery of these fossilized bones had to be interrupted due to the coronavirus pandemic. Covid-19. The team hopes to return to the scene during 2023 in order to pursue them.