Compsognathus was a small carnivorous theropod dinosaur that lived about 144 million years ago during the late Jurassic period. It was considered the world's smallest dinosaur, measuring 2 feet long and weighing 5 pounds; it was only the size of a chicken. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite its size, Compsognathus was the largest in its habitat. Fossils found show that its body was built for speed, it ran on two legs and used its long tail for balance. Two skeletons of compsognathus were found, one from Germany and one from France. It was discovered in 1859 and 1971, respectively. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compsognathus fed on small vertebrates, remember that those two skeletons mentioned both came with lizard bones preserved in their stomachs. It had keen vision, and the ability to snatch prey before they could scrape under rocks. It had two clawed fingers on each hand and broad fins that had been perfect for an amphibious lifestyle. Plus, it had a nice soft feather coat too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compsognathus could run at a speed of 18 mph.<\/p>\n\n\n\n