New species of dinosaur related to giant Tyrannosaurus

Scientists in Buenos Aires have unveiled a new species of dinosaur related to the giant Tyrannosaurus, the smaller Velociraptor and existing birds.

Officials from the Argentine Museum of Natural Science dubbed the prehistoric creature Bicentenaria Argentina.

Researchers said the carnivorous beast was likely to be measured between 2.5 and 3 metres (8 and 10 feet) long and was slim and agile.

Palaeontologist Fernando Novas said the dinosaur represents a new line line leading to the evolution of modern day birds. Novas said:

The shape of its sharp curved teeth and its long claws suggest Bicentenaria hunted other smaller dinosaurs, the scientist said.

The bones were discovered in Rio Negro in Argentina's Patagonia region and are thought to be approximately 90 million years old.