Unenlagia comahuensis

Novas et Puerta, 1997
Original : MCF PVPH 78. MNHN.F.AMS6
Reptilia, Dinosauria, Saurischia, Theropoda, Dromaeosauridae
Upper Cretaceous, Coniacian, 89 to 86 million years ago
La Colonia Formation, Patagonia, Argentina

The few known skeletal elements of this small carnivorous dinosaur were unearthed only in 1996. It is the first “raptor” discovered in the southern hemisphere. The skull of this little theropod is missing, but the postcranial skeleton, and in particular the the pelvis and its hind legs display characteristics that are very bird-like and are unlike those found in all other dromeosaurs. Because of this, some scientists think that Unenlagia was more closely related to birds than the other theropods, even though its considerable size (more than 2 m in length) clearly indicates that it could not fly.

The posture adopted by this specimen reflects the evolution of perceptions in palaeontology. While older reconstructions, the majority in the Gallery, have long associated dinosaurs with slowness, heaviness and lack of agility, contemporary mounts tend to highlight the flexibility, dexterity and speed of these animals.

Cast taken from a reconstruction of the original skeleton displayed in the Carmen Funes Museum in Argentina.