Coelurus

Coelurus was a small predator that walked on two legs. Many of its bones had very thin walls, making them very light. Coelurus may have been one of the fastest of the dinosaurs, as it was lightweight and had long legs. It probably had very good eyesight as well, and may have had feathers.

Coelurus would have preferred small, easily captured prey. It is possible that it was shy and avoided contact with heavier animals, as it could not have been very strong. It is quite likely that its preferred escape method would have been a rapid retreat from any threat.

There is still discussion among researchers as to the identification of the type specimen. The most recent detailed study suggests that the four specimens, which were found in the same quarry site, are actually just one individual. It was also once suggested that Coelurus and Ornitholestes was the same creature, but a recent study concluded that they are in fact separate genera.