The “bird-mimics” family of theropod dinosaurs called Ornithomimids mostly lived around rivers and lakes in North America and Asia during the Late Cretaceous Period, 65 million years ago.

Ornithomimids were ostrich-like and of the fastest known dinosaurs. Basic characteristics shared within the group include long, slender tails and necks with small skulls containing toothless beaks. Both the forearms and hind legs were long. The forearm had strong claws while the back limbs had elongated feet with toes that ended in a hoof-like claw.

These speedy dinosaurs ranged from 7 feet to over 26 feet long. Despite their size, their bones were very lightweight, helping with the swift, agile movements for which they are recognized.

The diet of Ornithomimids is still not known, however, based on their toothless beaks and stones called “gastroliths” found in their stomachs to break down tough plant materials, scientists believe they were largely herbivorous with some omnivorous tendencies.

Type: Ornithomimidae indet. Finger Bone - Digit 2, Phalanx 1
Age: Cretaceous: Campanian (83 - 72 million years old) 
Formation: Horseshoe Canyon Formation
Locality: Drumheller, Alberta, Canada

Size: 2.38 x 1.5 x 1.25 inches
Weight: 2.45 oz.