Velociraptor was a small, agile dromaeosaurid theropod known for its sharp claws and presumed high intelligence. Evidence such as fossilized trackways, grouped skeletons, and comparisons to modern social predators suggest that Velociraptor may have hunted in packs, allowing them to take down larger prey more efficiently than solitary hunters.
- Genus: Velociraptor, Family: Dromaeosauridae
- Size: About 2 meters long, 15-20 kg
- Era: Late Cretaceous (about 75-71 million years ago)
- Key features: Sickle-shaped claw, feathered bodies, keen senses
- Fossil evidence: Trackways showing group movement, "death pits" with multiple individuals
- Modern analogs: Social behavior inferred from birds (close relatives) and mammalian predators
- Pack hunting benefits: Improved prey capture, defense, and care for young
Fossilized trackways showing group movement and fossilized remains of multiple individuals together suggest possible pack behavior.
*Velociraptor* lived during the Late Cretaceous period.
Modern analogs include social birds and pack-hunting mammals.
The sickle-shaped claw was a unique feature used for hunting.
Pack hunting enabled *Velociraptor* to capture larger prey than solitary individuals could manage.
*Velociraptor* measured about 2 meters in length.
A relatively large braincase and complex inner ear suggest high intelligence.
Most *Velociraptor* fossils have been discovered in Mongolia.