Re: semilunate carpal

[Danvarner@aol.com]

In a message dated 8/7/01 8:35:06 AM Pacific Daylight Time, 
twilliams_alpha@hotmail.com writes:


<< But, on balance, I think the best interpretation is that _Velociraptor_ is 
grasping _Protoceratops_; _Velociraptor_ is the aggressor and 
_Protoceratops_ is the intended victim. >>



       Perhaps it could be more aptly put that the Velocirator was 
"controlling"its victims head. The head and tail are retracted to avoid 
injury. Protoceratops was armed much like a very lively alligator snapping 
turtle. In this case, I'd bet the _V_is pushing the head away. Snagging the 
prey's head could also result in the prey reflexively pulling back, allowing 
for a possible strike to the throat or upper chest. Dangerous work for a 
predator. Maybe Mark Hallett has some thoughts on this after creating his 
wonderful restoration of the event in _Global Dinosaurs_. DV