Re: semilunate carpal

["Tim Williams" <twilliams_alpha@hotmail.com>]

Dan Varner wrote:

> << 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.

Could be.  But, as can be clearly seen*, _Protoceratops_'s torso is exposed 
to the _Velociraptor_'s foot.  The _Velociraptor_ could end the tussle quite 
quickly (and perhaps already had).

*http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/fightingdinos/gallery/fd.jpg


Tim



---------------------------------------------------------------------

Timothy J. Williams

USDA-ARS Researcher
Agronomy Hall
Iowa State University
Ames IA 50014

Phone: 515 294 9233
Fax:   515 294 3163



_________________________________________________________________
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp