This is compatible with other evidence that the forelimbs were strong and capable of restraining prey.
In 2011, Denver Fowler and colleagues suggested a new method by which dromaeosaurs like Velociraptor and similar dromaeosaurs may have captured and restrained prey.
In association with this, Smilodon had robust forelimbs that were instrumental in restraining prey so that the killing bite or bites could be made with minimal risk of breaking the elongate canine teeth [11] [13].
This enlarged claw, which could grow to over 6.5 cm long around its outer edge, was most likely a predatory device used to tear into or restrain struggling prey.
Compared to falconids, accipitrids and Strigiformes must therefore have enhanced ability to restrain struggling prey, and this is partly accounted for by variation in talon and foot morphology.
Restraining struggling prey with their feet also was potentially an option, despite the absence of sharp talons.
The hypertrophied talons on digits (D) I and II in Accipitridae have evolved primarily to restrain large struggling prey while they are immobilised by dismemberment.
A Bengal tiger, for example, provides a biologist with a classic example of a carnivorous beast living in harmony with a jungle environment and restraining its main prey, deer, from undue increase in numbers.
Small prey are restrained by containment within the foot and immobilised by constriction and beak attacks.
Large prey are restrained by pinning under the bodyweight of the raptor, maintaining grip with the talons, and immobilised by dismemberment (Accipitridae), or severing the spinal cord (Falconini).
