In a groundbreaking study published by the Journal of Paleontology, researchers have unveiled what is believed to be the first documented instance of a raptor engaging in the scavenging of a tyrannosaur carcass. This remarkable finding may provide new insights into the interactions between these iconic prehistoric predators.
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The fossil in question belongs to a young Albertosaurus, a relative of the infamous Tyrannosaurus rex. Scientists at the University of Alberta have identified distinct tooth marks on the jaw of the Albertosaurus, suggesting they were caused by a dromaeosaurid, commonly referred to as a raptor. Philip Currie, a prominent paleontologist overseeing the research, remarked on the significance of the discovery, highlighting that it illustrates “a very small dinosaur eating a very big, mean, nasty dinosaur.”
The research originated from a fossil unearthed in 2022 by Peter Hodgkinson, who discovered broken skull fragments at the edge of a mudstone slope in the Red Deer River valley, located in Saskatchewan, Canada. Following his discovery, Hodgkinson contacted the Royal Tyrrell Museum, leading to the recovery of the fossilized remains between 2022 and 2025. Upon examination, museum technicians observed what appeared to be bite marks and subsequently forwarded the specimen to the University of Alberta for detailed analysis.
Leading the analysis was Joshua Doyon, a master’s student in paleontology, who played a crucial role in the study’s findings. According to the university, the Albertosaurus, which translates to “Alberta lizard,” reigned as the apex predator in its environment approximately 73 to 67 million years ago. The fossil evidence suggests that the individual was at least eight years of age at the time of death, with researchers estimating it was likely around 10 to 11 years old, measuring nearly 20 feet in length and weighing in excess of 1,175 pounds.
Close examination of the specimens revealed the presence of bite marks on two lower-jaw bones. The marks included three nearly parallel grooves on the inner surface, along with a small groove towards the back that displayed about 28 fine lines, indicative of a serrated tooth. By analysing the spacing of these lines and correlating them with the teeth of dinosaurs found in the region, researchers ascertained that a raptor weighing between 35 and 40 pounds was responsible for these marks.
The nature of the bite marks is particularly compelling, showing no signs of healing. Doyon explained to CTV News that the positioning of the marks suggests they were inflicted either at the time of death or shortly thereafter. He added that the location of the marks would have made it difficult for a raptor to attack the Albertosaurus while it was alive, leaning towards the theory that the smaller dinosaur scavenged the carcass after the Albertosaurus had already succumbed.
While there is an alternative explanation that suggests the bite marks could potentially be attributed to a juvenile Albertosaurus itself, hinting at a case of cannibalism, the research team regards this scenario as less probable. Their primary conclusion favours the interpretation that a raptor scavenged the remains of the larger predator, offering a window into the ecological dynamics of the Late Cretaceous period.
This captivating fossil is now housed within the Royal Tyrrell Museum’s collections based in Drumheller, Alberta, where it continues to pique the interest of both researchers and enthusiasts alike. As scientific examination of such finds progresses, it promises to shed further light on the lifestyles and behaviours of some of the most formidable dinosaurs that ever roamed the Earth.
The implications of this discovery highlight not only the relationship between predator and prey in prehistoric ecosystems but also emphasise the complexities of survival strategies employed by these ancient creatures. The study ultimately adds a significant layer to our understanding of the ecological interactions that took place during a time when these dinosaurs dominated their environments.