History Made Every Day™

Name: Albertosaurus

Pronounced: al-BERT-oh-saw-russ

Description:
Slightly smaller than its close relative, the more famous Tyrannosaurus-Rex, Albertosaurus could reach up to nine meters (29.5 feet) in length and weigh as much as three tons. It had a pair of short, powerful arms and walked on two muscular legs that ended in three-toed clawed feet (similar to those of a bird) and allowed it to move relatively quickly, at speeds of nearly 25 miles per hour. Its long, tapered tail helped it greatly with balance and agility.

Fighting Style:
Evidence shows that Albertosaurus hunted in packs, making it an especially terrifying predator. Its keen sense of vision and ability to move quickly on two legs helped it track and zero in on its prey. Baring its sharp dagger-like teeth (each of which had a replacement growing underneath it), Albertosaurus would rush headlong at its intended victim, grab it with its powerful jaws, and rip through its flesh; its aim was to inflict an injury that would cause its victim to bleed to death.

Home Turf: North America - Canada (Alberta province)

When It Lived: Late Cretaceous period (about 75 million years ago)

What's For Dinner?:
Like T-Rex, Albertosaurus was an apex predator, at the top of the food chain in its geographical range and time period. Its prey likely included herbivorous dinosaurs like the large but slower-moving Pachyrhinosaurus or the duck-billed Edmontosaurus.

Did You Know?:
Despite their heft and power, tyrannosaurs such as Albertosaurus had hollow bones, like those of a bird, that reduced the weight of their frame and made them more mobile.