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Dinosaurs Inside and Out

Dinosaur 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.