Dino of the Week: Baryonyx

Andy Davidson, Writer

Name: Baryonyx

Time Period: The Baryonyx roamed the earth during the Early Cretaceous period which began around 144 million years ago. This means it lived at the same time as other popular dinosaurs such as the Brachiosaurus.

Diet: The Baryonyx was a medium sized carnivore whose diet consisted primarily of fish. Its crocodile like head and sharp claws made it an expert hunter of rivers and lakes for Cretaceous-era sushi.

Size: The Baryonyx grew up to 30 feet in length, 8 feet tall, and could weigh 2 tons! That is as much as a small African Elephant.

Fun Facts:

  • The name Baryonyx means heavy claw.
  • The Baryonyx hunted much like that of a modern bear, sweeping the rivers with its powerful claws to catch fish.
  • Baryonyx was the first large Early Cretaceous theropod found anywhere in the world.

Keep on the lookout for next week’s dino of the week as Andy returns with a new dino profile!