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New Mexico (KOAT) — A fossil discovered more than two decades ago in northwestern New Mexico has led scientists to identify a previously unknown species of dinosaur that lived roughly 73 million years ago.
Researchers with the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science announced the discovery of Dinevenator robustus, a newly identified member of the troodontid family — small, bird-like dinosaurs known for their relatively large brains and omnivorous diets.
The findings were recently published in the scientific journal Fossil Studies.
The fossil that started the research was uncovered in 2005 in the San Juan Basin’s Kirtland Formation.
Based on related dinosaurs, scientists estimate the animal measured between 8 and 10 feet long and weighed as much as 300 pounds.
The discovery expands scientists’ understanding of dinosaurs in the American Southwest.
Museum researchers said each new fossil helps build a clearer picture of the ecosystems that existed in the region during that time.
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