4 Common Velociraptor Misconceptions and Myths
Of the countless dinosaur species, the Velociraptor is near and dear to many of our hearts. This fierce predator is the star of many dinosaur-centric movies that depict it as a large, scale-covered, highly intelligent animal. All this makes for a captivating story and can leave some of us assuming that those details are scientific truths. But are they? Below, we’ve dispelled some of the most common Velociraptor misconceptions and myths.
They Only Had Scales
When we imagine dinosaurs, many of us picture scaly animals similar to oversized lizards. While this assumption makes sense and has been the belief for a long time, it’s incorrect. Scientists hypothesize that Velociraptors had feathers because the dinosaur’s bones have small, knobby bumps where feathers would attach.
Most paleontologists assume that feathers increased the Velociraptor’s aerodynamics as the dino ran after prey and quickly maneuvered itself. However, it’s also possible that feathers helped with body temperature regulation and, more specifically, insulating heat when it was cold.
They Were Horse-Sized
Most movies, specifically the Jurassic Park franchise, depict Velociraptors as dinosaurs nearly the size of a horse. Velociraptors are large enough for an adult to ride them in movies. While this can make for some fun on-screen content, it’s inaccurate. Realistically, Velociraptors were closer to the size of a turkey.
They Lived During the Jurassic Period
Movies have also led many to believe that Velociraptors lived during the Jurassic period. However, the Velociraptor and many other iconic dinosaurs lived during the late Cretaceous period. Earth was warmer and more humid during the Velociraptor’s lifetime. Additionally, this dinosaur lived in what is now the Gobi Desert, so its homeland was desert-like.
They Were Geniuses
Another common Velociraptor myth and misconception is that they had an intelligence level on par with humans. Although they were intelligent, most high-ranking predators are, which comes more in the form of cleverness than typical intelligence.
For instance, a Velociraptor may have figured out ways to track its prey and sneak up before going in for the kill; however, its smarts only went so far. That said, based on its brain-to-body size, it was likely one of the smarter dinosaurs.
Add Velociraptors To Your Home
Understanding the truth behind Velociraptor myths reveals just how fascinating these dinosaurs were. From their feathered bodies and turkey-like size to their late Cretaceous origins, Velociraptors prove that reality can be just as captivating as fiction.
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