Tiny dino

September 22, 2008

MEDIA ADVISORY

Ancient “anteater” North America’s smallest dinosaur yet

An unusual breed of dinosaur that was the size of a chicken, ran on two legs and scoured the ancient forest floor for termites is the smallest dinosaur species found in North America to date, according to a University of Calgary researcher who analyzed fossils found during the excavation of an ancient bone bed near Red Deer, Alberta.

In a paper published in the current issue of the journal Cretaceous Research, U of C paleontologist Nick Longrich and University of Alberta’s Philip Currie describe the specimen they named Albertonykus borealis and explain how it it likely specialized in consuming insects by using its small but powerful forelimbs to tear into logs. The slender bird-like creature is a new member of the family Alvarezsauridae and is one of only a few such fossils found outside of South America and Asia.

U of C researcher Nick Longrich will be available for media interview on Tuesday, Sept. 23 from 10 am to 12 pm in the Department of Biological Sciences’ vertebrate morphology research lab. Artists’ illustrations of the dinosaur will be available for media use.

Media availability and photo opportunities, Tuesday, Sept. 23:

What:
Media availability on Albertonykus borealis dinosaur discovery.

Who:
U of C research associate Nick Longrich will be available for interviews and photo opportunities.

When:
10 am to 12 pm, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008.

Where:
Vertebrate morphology lab, Biological Sciences Building Room 378 (third floor).

Media are welcome to park in any lot on campus. If your vehicle is not marked, please leave a media business card in your window. Please do not park in 24-hour reserved spots, loading zones or handicapped stalls. See U of C campus map.

Media contact:
Grady Semmens
Senior Communications Manager – Research
University of Calgary
Phone: (403) 220-7722
Cell: (403) 540-6552
Email: gsemmens@ucalgary.ca