RE: theropod scavenging

["Williams, Tim" <TiJaWi@agron.iastate.edu>]

Dan Varner wrote:

<< I like Carpenter and
Smith's idea that the arms were used to clasp prey close to the
tyrannosaur's chest while (or after) the jaws went and feet went to work
subduing the prey. >>

>Has anyone put this idea down on paper or canvas yet? DV

Carpenter, K. and Smith, M. 2001.  Forelimb osteology and biomechanics of
_Tyrannosaurus rex_. p. 90-116.  In: Tanke, D.H. & Carpenter, K. (Eds.)2001.
_Mesozoic Vertebrate Life: New Research Inspired by the Paleontology of
Philip J. Currie_. Indiana University Press 577 pp.

P.S. On the scavenger vs predator thing, many scavengers (particularly
carrion-eating birds) do not rely on their senses to detect carrion
directly.  These scavengers watch out for concentrations of predators or
other scavengers in the vicinity of the carcass - either clustered on the
ground or circling above - which are highly visible from a distance.




Tim