New Two-Clawed Dinosaur Discovered

Scientists have unearthed a previously unknown dinosaur species, Duonychus tsogtbaatari, in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert.

Unlike its therizinosaur relatives, which typically had three fingers, this species had only two – a rare evolutionary trait among dinosaurs.

The discovery includes a remarkably well-preserved claw with an intact keratinous sheath, the largest ever found. Measuring nearly a foot long, the claw was longer than its underlying bone, suggesting it played a key role in grasping vegetation, display, or defence.

Standing around three metres tall and weighing 260kg, Duonychus tsogtbaatari was an herbivore or omnivore. Despite belonging to the same theropod group as Tyrannosaurus rex, it was not a predator. Its distinctive claws, compared to sloth talons or oversized tongs, likely aided in feeding.

The fossil, found by Mongolian palaeontologists, included parts of the dinosaur’s backbone, tail, hips, arms, and legs. Researchers believe Duonychus tsogtbaatari may also have been feathered, adding to its unusual appearance.

This find offers fresh insight into dinosaur evolution, highlighting how different species adapted unique features to thrive in their environments.

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