Velociraptor

Velociraptor earned its fearsome reputation not from its size, as it measures only 4 meters in length and is overshadowed by larger and less intimidating dinosaur species. However, its ferocity and intelligence set it apart. Equipped with large, sharp teeth and sickle-shaped claws, Velociraptor is an exceptionally efficient predator, primarily targeting herbivorous dinosaurs like Protoceratops. Nevertheless, its limited strength means it is unlikely to engage in combat with larger or heavily armored dinosaurs.

The initial discovery of Velociraptor took place in 1923 by Peter Kaisen during an expedition to the Gobi Desert in Outer Mongolia, conducted in collaboration with the American Museum of Natural History. Kaisen unearthed a complete skull and a toe claw, which were subsequently sent to Henry Fairfield Osborne at the museum in New York. The specimen was then named Velociraptor, meaning ‘swift plunderer,’ referencing its impressive speed and predatory behavior.

Fossils of Velociraptor have solely been found within the Djadochta Formation in Mongolia, indicating that this genus inhabited the region approximately 70-74 million years ago, during the Late Cretaceous period. The climate during this time was desert-like, prompting Velociraptor to gravitate towards streams and rivers where its prey would gather in search of vegetation.