Enhanced Sense Of Smell In A Raptor?

[Auspex]

"A researcher from the University of Pennsylvania has identified a species of dinosaur closely related to Velociraptor...The newly named species likely possessed a keen sense of smell that would have made it a formidable predator."

LINK

My two cents:

An enhanced sense of smell is more of a hallmark of specialist scavengers, and some omnivores. Top terrestrial predators rely more on sharp, motion-sensitive vision.

[ashcraft]

"A researcher from the University of Pennsylvania has identified a species of dinosaur closely related to Velociraptor...The newly named species likely possessed a keen sense of smell that would have made it a formidable predator."

LINK

My two cents:

An enhanced sense of smell is more of a hallmark of specialist scavengers, and some omnivores. Top terrestrial predators rely more on sharp, motion-sensitive vision.

True, but some high end predators are olfactory oriented, specifically the hyenas, weasels, and all of the dog relatives. To catch weasels and coyotes/fox, you use scent, visual attractors are not needed, or wanted, as they attract possums, etc.

Brent Ashcraft

[Fossildude19]

Interesting article, and views, Auspex. Thanks for the link.

Regards,

[Auspex]

True, but some high end predators are olfactory oriented, specifically the hyenas, weasels, and all of the dog relatives. To catch weasels and coyotes/fox, you use scent, visual attractors are not needed, or wanted, as they attract possums, etc.

Brent Ashcraft

The mammal brain does have a sensory edge; it must be noted though that none of the above had to sacrifice visual acuity to develop their sense of smell. Also, Hyenas and many canids are pretty omnivorous, while the mustelidae habitually hunt when and where vision most useful at close quarters.

[ashcraft]

The mammal brain does have a sensory edge; it must be noted though that none of the above had to sacrifice visual acuity to develop their sense of smell. Also, Hyenas and many canids are pretty omnivorous, while the mustelidae habitually hunt when and where vision most useful at close quarters.

It could also be that their sense of smell while useful in hunting, is not why they have it. Mustelids and canines use theirs primarily for social interaction.

Brent Ashcraft