Dinosaurs Inside and OutDinosaur Metabolism |
What does theropod dinosaur brain size tell us about their metabolism? |
Unlike most of the other dinosaurs, some of the smaller theropods (carnivores) had large brains relative to their body size. The brains were equivalent to those found in similar-sized mammals. To function properly, large brains need a steady temperature and constant supply of food and oxygen, all of which could indicate a potential for the higher metabolism associated with warm-bloodedness.