Collecta Neovenator (M)

Neovenator was a genus of theropod dinosaur that lived during the early Cretaceous period, approximately 125 million years ago. It was a large carnivorous dinosaur, belonging to the group of theropods known as Allosauridae. Neovenator was a fearsome predator with sharp teeth and strong jaws, making it a formidable hunter in its ecosystem.

Suitable for children from 3 years.

Fun Facts:

1. Discovery: Neovenator was first discovered in 1978 on the Isle of Wight, United Kingdom. Its name "Neovenator" means "new hunter" in reference to its predatory nature.

2. Size: Neovenator was a relatively large dinosaur, measuring around 25 to 30 feet (7.6 to 9 meters) in length and weighing approximately 2 to 3 tons.

3. Hunting Style: As a carnivorous dinosaur, Neovenator likely preyed on other dinosaurs and small to medium-sized vertebrates. Its long, slender limbs and agile body may have allowed it to be a swift and efficient hunter.

4. Feathered Dinosaur: Some studies suggest that Neovenator, like many other theropod dinosaurs, may have had feathers or feather-like structures on its body. This indicates that feathers might have been more widespread among theropods than previously thought.

5. Role in Ecosystem: Neovenator was a top predator in its environment, playing a crucial role in regulating the populations of its prey species and contributing to the overall balance of the ecosystem during the early Cretaceous period.

6. Teeth Variability: One interesting aspect of Neovenator is the variation in the size and shape of its teeth, which could indicate specialization for different types of prey or different stages of growth.

Neovenator provides valuable insights into the diversity and adaptations of large predatory dinosaurs during the early Cretaceous, contributing to our understanding of the ancient ecosystems in which they lived.