RAPTOR (DROMAEOSAUR) CLAW - Sahara Desert, Morocco

LATE CRETACEOUS PERIOD - 96 - 66 million years ago

The dromaeosaurs are popularly known (especially in the movie "Jurassic Park") as "raptors", a group of fascinating extinct creatures.  Raptors ranged in size from the size of a  wolf on up to 30 feet long!  They are therapods that possessed specialized features: a well-developed slashing talon on their second toe, a stiffened tail, and large grasping hands.

The "killing claw" of raptors was a terrifying and incredibly efficient weapon.  As they moved, it was held off the ground.  When the muscles of the toe were contracted, the claw swept down quickly, providing for a powerful slash that may have been able to disembowel prey swiftly.  The stiffened tail would have been good to stabilize the body while the grasping arms and jaws held onto the prey for balance.  Although there is no conclusive evidence for this, it has been suggested that raptors could have performed leaps onto large prey and used all four limbs to rip wounds in them.  Raptors were ferocious predators that some scientists believe hunted in packs and attacked much larger dinosaurs by slashing their underbellies.  It is also believed that they were similar to lions in predatory behavior, preferring ambushes and quick chases using their high maneuverability along with strategic pack-hunting tactics.  A human could be torn to shreds by a pack of raptors in less than 30 seconds.  

This raptor claw is a beautiful specimen and remnant of these amazing creatures.  The overall condition is superb with the blood groove still intact and plainly visible running down the sides.  The claw is completely INTACT and has only been reinforced at the end to prevent damage.  Would make an awesome accompaniment to the raptor tooth listed for sale on this site, as well.  These are EXTREMELY RARE and should be included in any serious collector's cabinet while still available in this lifetime.

This specimen is so incredible it is being offered separately here.  The picture above is the actual item for sale.  This piece represents the finest and rarest quality available and is a MUST HAVE for any true dinosaur aficionado.  

2.5" long x .5" wide

SOLD     DC1     INCLUDES DISPLAY BOX     Actual Item - One Only

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