DILOPHOSAURUS

Double-crested reptile

Dilophosaurus was one of the largest carnivorous dinosaurs of the Early Jurassic Period. Dilophosaurus gets its name from the two thin crests of bone on the top of its head. These were probably used as a display for courtship purposes.

As a more primitive predatory dinosaur, Dilophosaurus didn't have forward facing eyes to give it stereo vision.

It may have used scent as an integral part of its hunting technique. It had long and slender, rear-curving teeth in long jaws and strong front arms which would have been effective in grabbing prey. It was fast - probably with a top speed of about 30-mph. Footprints attributed to Dilophosaurus appear in groups, so it may have hunted in small packs.