
Overview
Baryonyx walkeri was a large, carnivorous theropod dinosaur that lived during the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 130 to 125 million years ago. It is known for its distinctive crocodile-like skull and large, hooked claws, which it likely used for fishing.
Baryonyx was a medium-sized predator, measuring about 30 feet (9 meters) in length and weighing around 2 tons. Its name means “heavy claw,” a reference to its massive thumb claws.
Quick Facts
Diet
Carnivore (fish and small animals)
Speed
~20 mph (estimated)
Weight
~2 tons (1,800 kg)
Length
~30 ft (9 m)
Bite Force
~1,000 psi (estimated)
Discovery & Significance
Baryonyx was first discovered in 1983 in Surrey, England, by amateur fossil hunter William Walker. The discovery included a nearly complete skeleton, making it one of the most well-preserved theropods ever found. Its unique features, such as the crocodile-like skull and large claws, have made it a subject of fascination for scientists and the public alike.
The discovery of fish scales and bones in the stomach region of the Baryonyx fossil provided direct evidence of its piscivorous (fish-eating) diet. This makes Baryonyx one of the few theropods known to have primarily fed on fish.
Physical Characteristics
Baryonyx had a long, narrow skull with conical teeth, similar to those of modern crocodiles. Its jaws were adapted for catching and holding slippery prey, such as fish. The most distinctive feature of Baryonyx was its large, hooked thumb claws, which could grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length.
Its body was robust, with strong hind limbs and shorter forelimbs. Baryonyx likely used its claws to catch fish, similar to how modern bears fish for salmon. Its long, crocodile-like snout and conical teeth were perfectly suited for gripping slippery prey.