Alvarezsaurids were a unique group of small, bird-like theropod dinosaurs from the Late Jurassic to Late Cretaceous. Characterized by their distinct, powerful...
Alvarezsaurids are a group of small, bird-like theropod dinosaurs characterized by their distinctive short, robust forelimbs, often featuring a single greatly enlarged claw on each hand.
They thrived during the Late Jurassic to Late Cretaceous periods, with fossils primarily discovered in Asia and South America.
Their highly specialized, single-clawed forelimbs are thought to have been adapted for unique feeding strategies, possibly for digging into nests to consume social insects like termites or ants, or for tearing into tough vegetation.
While debated, their dental features and specialized claws suggest they were likely insectivores, specializing in invertebrates, or potentially omnivores.
Yes, as theropod dinosaurs, Alvarezsaurids belong to the lineage that includes modern birds. Early studies even considered them basal birds, highlighting their significant role in understanding avian evolution.