**Viavenator: The Road Hunter**
Viavenator is a type of dinosaur that lived in what is now Argentina around 86 to 83 million years ago, during a time called the Santonian. It is known as a carnivorous dinosaur, meaning it ate meat.
The name “Viavenator” means “road hunter,” which hints at its hunting style. It belongs to a family called Abelisauridae, which includes other fierce carnivorous dinosaurs.
**Classification**
Viavenator was classified by a scientist named Filippi in 2016. It forms a group called Furileusauria, which also includes another dinosaur named Carnotaurus. Viavenator was about 5.6 meters long, which is roughly 18 feet—about the size of a small bus!
**Paleobiology**
Viavenator’s brain structure was similar to another dinosaur known as Aucasaurus, suggesting it had good senses. Its inner ear was adapted for quick movements of the head, which helped it stabilize its vision while hunting. Compared to its relative Majungasaurus from Madagascar, it was better at moving its head quickly and focusing on its prey.
Both Viavenator and Majungasaurus could hear a similar range of sounds, according to studies of their skulls.
In summary, Viavenator was an impressive hunter from the past, well-adapted to its environment and capable of quick movements to catch its prey.