Nanotyrannus Hand Claw | Niobrara Co. Wyoming | Lance Creek Formation

Nanotyrannus lancensis
Late Cretaceous (~66 million years ago)
Lance Creek Formation
Niobrara County, Wyoming 

Claw approx. dimensions: 4"

Specimen approx. dimensions: 4" x 1.5" 

This specimen comes in a 6.25" x 6.25" x 0.75" black floating frame

*This specimen has had restoration to the tip and the proximal end.

Nanotyrranus means "dwarf tyrant", alluding to its miniature size compared to other members of its presumed subfamily, Tyrannosaurinae. It is highly debated as to whether Nanotyrannus is a valid genus, or if a specimen is actually a juvenile Tyrannosaurus.

Nanotyrannus was a carnivorous dinosaur that probably hunted smaller, faster dinosaurs such as juvenile hadrosaurs and ceratopsians, relying on its agility and speed. Its diet focused on smaller prey, differing from the large animals targeted by mature T. rex. Some researchers also suggest that Nanotyrannus may have scavenged carrion.