Deinosuchus
Deinosuchus hatcheri • "Terrible Crocodile"
Deinosuchus was a giant crocodile relative that lived in North America during the Late Cretaceous. Fossils show it shared coastal and river environments with dinosaurs and other large animals; claims about exactly how it hunted remain reconstructions from incomplete remains.
- Length
- ≈11 m
- Weight
- ≈5.0 t
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Danger
- ★★★★★
Overview
Deinosuchus was a giant crocodile relative that lived in North America during the Late Cretaceous. Fossils show it shared coastal and river environments with dinosaurs and other large animals; claims about exactly how it hunted remain reconstructions from incomplete remains.
“The name means “terrible crocodile.” Smithsonian collections include fossil material identified as Deinosuchus.”
Key facts
Strengths
- Adapted to its prehistoric environment
Weaknesses
- Limited fossil evidence for detailed behavior
Natural weapons
- Natural jaws, teeth, or defensive anatomy
Movies vs. science
Myth: Popular media often simplifies prehistoric animal behavior.
Reality: Fossils provide the strongest evidence for anatomy and ecology.
Size & simulator stats
Large individuals are estimated at around 10 m or more; estimates vary because fossil material is incomplete.
- Length
- 11 m
- Height
- 2.5 m
- Weight
- 5.0 t
Illustrative simulator values (not measured biology)
See how Deinosuchus measures up in the sourced size comparison chart.
Habitat
Late Cretaceous coastal and river environments of North America.
North America, including coastal and river environments represented by fossils in the United States and Mexico.
Diet
A large-bodied crocodilian relative. Its jaws and fossil context suggest it could prey on animals approaching or entering the water.
Carnivore. Bite marks and anatomy suggest it fed on large animals, but the details of its hunting behavior are uncertain.
Fossils & discovery
First described from Fossil record (Multiple fossil formations).The name means “terrible crocodile.” Smithsonian collections include fossil material identified as Deinosuchus.
Research sources
- Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: Deinosuchus specimen
- Smithsonian Magazine: Deinosuchus
Sources checked on by the Dinosaurs Names Editorial Team. Editorial policy
Gallery
Related dinosaurs
Battle Arena
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