Jurassic Dinosaur Footprint
Age: 201 / 199 Million Years Old
Late Jurassic Era
Species: Grallator Variabilis
Specimen: Theropod Dinosaur Footprint
Discovered: Languedoc-Roussillon, France
Hettangian Period
Specimen Measures Roughly 6" Tall - 7.5" Wide (From longest points and overall specimen)
Grallator Variabilis is an extinct dinosaur species that lived during the Early Jurassic period, around 200 million years ago. It is a type of theropod dinosaur, which means that it was a carnivorous, bipedal dinosaur that walked on two legs. The name Grallator Variabilis is derived from the Latin word "grallator," which means "stalker," and "variabilis," which means "variable," describing its ability to adapt to different environments.
One of the distinguishing features of Grallator Variabilis is the shape of its footprints, which were discovered in various locations around the world, including the United States, Argentina, and Spain. The footprints are characterized by three forward-pointing toes, each ending in a claw, and a fourth toe that faced backward. The size of the footprints varied, ranging from 5 to 22 centimeters in length, suggesting that Grallator Variabilis may have had different sizes and shapes, depending on the location and environment where it lived.
Based on the size of the footprints, scientists believe that Grallator Variabilis may have been a medium-sized dinosaur, weighing between 20 to 50 kilograms. It is also believed that Grallator Variabilis was a swift runner, capable of reaching speeds of up to 35 kilometers per hour. The structure of the footprints also suggests that Grallator Variabilis may have had an agile and flexible body, with a long tail that helped it maintain balance while running.
Despite the numerous footprints found around the world, little is known about the anatomy and behavior of Grallator Variabilis. However, scientists have speculated that it was a meat-eating predator, hunting smaller animals for food. Its ability to adapt to different environments, as suggested by the variability in the size and shape of its footprints, may have also allowed it to survive in a range of habitats, from forests to deserts.
In conclusion, Grallator Variabilis is an intriguing dinosaur species that provides valuable insights into the diversity and evolution of the early Jurassic period. The discovery of its footprints has shed light on its physical characteristics, including its speed, agility, and adaptability to different environments. While much remains unknown about this fascinating dinosaur, ongoing research may reveal more about its anatomy, behavior, and ecological significance.
