Zoology: Bones (Fossil / Prehistoric)

Hoplophoneus dakotensis cranium. Slightly larger than Hoplophoneus occidentalis, these Nimravids are found throughout the Protoceras beds of the Poleslide member- South Dakota. They are easily distinguished from H. occidentalis by their very large mastoid processes. This is a cat-like animal similar to a saber-toothed cat. This specimen shows a fatal bite wound across the frontals. We are grateful to the Babiarz Institute of Paleontological Studies for the opportunity to cast this individual.
10 ½" L x 6" W x 4" H