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DROMAEOSAUR " RAPTOR " TOE CLAW - Tegana Formation - Kem Kem, Morocco CRETACEOUS PERIOD: 96 - 66 million years ago Without a doubt, a raptor claw is the most sought-after fossil amongst all dinosaur fossil collectors regardless of how advanced they are. Dinosaurs obviously had fewer claws than teeth and did not shed claws to the same frequency as teeth were shed. Combine this with the fact that claws from a raptor are in such strong demand and you have the makings of a gem of a fossil when you find such a well-preserved specimen such as this one. This is the toe claw of a larger than average sized raptor dinosaur. It is in the best condition you could hope for - intact without any repair nor restoration. A very pronounced blood groove can be seen running down the one side of the specimen. The opposite side shows a distinct nutrient pore at the proximal end of the smaller and less pronounced blood groove of this side. The natural color is natural burnt orange and we have only chemically stabilized it to harden and protect its remarkable intact nature as it was found. Surface detail and preservation is first rate. One of the nicest raptor toe claws with a sharp tip and complete! When we think of raptors, we think of the large Jurassic Park version but that movie was not scientifically accurate by any means. The vast majority of raptors were quite small and would only stand as high as your knee or thigh. Nevertheless, they were voracious and fierce creatures that we affectionately call "prehistoric land piranhas". Most dinosaur claws of any species command the highest prices and are the most demanded dinosaur fossils. The majority are mostly pieced back together from fragments and require CONSIDERABLE restoration. Raptor claws are unquestionably, the most asked for fossil claw. In examining this superb example, one can immediately recognize its value and rarity! Raptors were highly efficient hunter-killer predators. 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 specimen is a must for anyone that has ever wanted a genuine toe claw from one of these terrifying prehistoric predators. The source where this was found is now almost completely devoid of quality teeth and claws. Claws were always rare even 10 years ago but now, even small gems like this are seldom found. COMPLETE TOE CLAW WITH NO DAMAGE OR REPAIR AND NO RESTORATION! 1.3" long along the dorsal curve SOLD DC13 INCLUDES DISPLAY BOX Actual Item - One Only |
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