Shri is an extinct type of small dinosaur that belonged to a family called dromaeosaurids. These dinosaurs lived during the Late Cretaceous period in what is now Mongolia, about 70-75 million years ago.
There are two known species of Shri. The first one is called Shri devi, which was first described in 2021 after scientists found a partial skeleton. The name “Shri” comes from a Buddhist deity, while “devi” means “goddess” in Sanskrit. The second species is called Shri rapax, identified in 2025 from a nearly complete skeleton, although its skull has unfortunately been lost.
The first skeleton discovered for Shri devi was found in 1991 in a place known as the Barun Goyot Formation. It was nicknamed “Ichabodcraniosaurus” because it did not have a head (skull) preserved. This skeleton was thought to belong to another dinosaur called Velociraptor initially but was later classified as its own genus.
In 2023, another important find related to Shri was made. A new specimen was found, which included a partial skull and a leg bone. Over time, scientists have uncovered more evidence about these dinosaurs, allowing them to understand better how they might have lived.
Shri rapax was described based on a well-preserved skeleton that was eventually returned to Mongolia after being kept in private collections. This species is named “rapax” which means “rapacious” in Latin, because of its sharp, sickle-like claw.
In terms of physical characteristics, Shri dinosaurs had traits similar to Velociraptor, but with some unique features. For example, they had specific structures in their bones that help paleontologists distinguish them from other similar dinosaurs.
Scientists believe that Shri had a powerful bite, stronger than Velociraptor, based on the shape of its skull and teeth. This suggests that they might have had different eating habits and lived alongside other dromaeosaurids in their environment.
Overall, studying dinosaurs like Shri helps us learn more about the diversity of life that existed millions of years ago and how these ancient animals may have interacted in their habitats.