The Secernosaurus was a large ornithopod that lived during the Late Cretaceous Period, approximately 71 million years ago. This dinosaur was also a member of the Hadrosauridae family, which consisted of other duck-billed dinosaurs.
Key facts
| Domain | Description |
|---|---|
| Secernosaurus pronunciation | see-ser-noh-sore-us |
| What does Secernosaurus mean? | Separated lizard” or “severed lizard |
| Dinosaur type | Ornithopod |
| On the menu | Herbivore |
| Length | 10′ (3 meters) |
| Height | 5′ (1.5 meters) |
| Weight | 4000 lbs (1,800 kgs) |
| Life expectancy | Unknown |
| Legs used to get around | Hatchlings walked on two legs. Adults were quadrupedal |
| Estimated top speed | They may have been slow as their front legs were seldom used |
| When they lived | During the Late Cretaceous Period, which was 71-65 million years ago |
| Where they have been found? | Argentina |
When & Where
Discovered in the Lago Colhue Hapi and Los Amitos Formations, Argentina. Its type species, named Secernosaurus koerneri, was described in 1972.
Size & Weight
Reached a length of 10′ (3 meters), a height of 5′ (1.5 meters), and a weight of 4000 lbs (1814 kg).
Mobility & Diet
Munched on plant materials such as horsetail, as well as twigs and stems, that were part of the flora during the late Cretaceous Period.
Interesting Points
- Known to have a “duck-billed” face, being one of the hadrosauridae members and its nose has this “Roman-nose” appearance.
- 3 different specimens have been discovered by paleontologists
Featured Image Credit: National History Museum