Re: Rugops, a scavenger?

[Tim Williams <twilliams_alpha@hotmail.com>]

Michael Skrepnick wrote:

> Although Sereno had no explanation for why a shortened
> skull might help or hinder the process of scavenging, I find it interesting
> that the robust laterally splayed morphology of abelisaurid cervicals seem
> well suited to strong twisting movements that would be ideal in 
> dismembering
> carcasses.

Nice idea.  I suggested a while back that _Carnotaurus_ used its short 
pointed horns to 'dig' into carcasses, since the forelimbs were too feeble 
to accomplish this task.  Note, like Mike I'm not arguing that _Carnotaurus_ 
was an obligate scavenger; all carnivores have to gain access to inside the 
carcass.



Tim

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