Grallator is an "ichnogenus" (form taxon based on footprints), which covers a common type of small, three-toed print made by a variety of theropod dinosaurs. Grallator-type footprints have been found in formations dating from the late Triassic - early Cretaceous periods. These prints are found in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia & China but are most abundant on the east coast of North America.
Grallator directly translated means "stilt walker", but the actual length and form of the track making legs varied by species. Usually the species is unidentifiable.
Grallator footprints are characteristically three-toed (tridactyl) and range from 5 to 15 centimeters (or 2 to 6 inches) long. Though the tracks show only three toes, the track makers likely had between four five toes on their feet. While it is usually impossible to match these prints with the exact dinosaur species that left them, it is sometimes possible to narrow down potential track makers by comparing the proportions in individual Grallator ichnospecies with known dinosaurs of the same formation.
This Grallator track is a museum quality specimen in pristine condition. Its detailing is very distinct, unlike lesser-priced specimens found on the market.
Overall measurement: ~ 8-1/2" long x 4-3/4" wide
Imprint measurement: ~ 6-1/2" long x 3-1/2" wide
Jurassic period: 170 mya
South Hadley, Massachusetts, USA
