Shenzhousaurus is a type of dinosaur that lived during the Early Cretaceous period, around 126 million years ago.
The name Shenzhousaurus means “Shenzhou lizard.”
It was discovered in China, specifically from the Yixian Formation in Liaoning Province. The first fossils were found in a location called the Sihetun fossil site.
The discovery included a partial skeleton that was found lying in a “death pose.” This means the way it was positioned when it died looked like it was lying down, with its head raised above its body. Unfortunately, some parts of the skeleton were missing, such as parts of its legs and hands.
Scientists first described Shenzhousaurus in 2003. The specific type of Shenzhousaurus is called Shenzhousaurus orientalis.
This dinosaur is believed to be more advanced than a dinosaur called Pelecanimimus but less advanced than another called Harpymimus.
One unique feature of Shenzhousaurus is the shape of its bones. For example, it has a straight ischial shaft and a pointed end on its hip bone.
The skull of this dinosaur measured about 185 mm, which is around the size of a small apple.
Additionally, some small stones were discovered in its chest area, which scientists think could have been used to help with digestion.
Shenzhousaurus is an interesting example of the diverse types of dinosaurs that lived millions of years ago.