Zoology: Bones (Fossil / Prehistoric)

The short-faced bear (Arctodus simus) had long limbs and would have dwarfed both the European cave bear and the modern Kodiak bear. The Andean bear is its closest surviving relative. The short-faced bears found in Alaska (such as this one) are typically more robust than those found farther south. Arctodus simus became extinct about 10-12 thousand years ago. This specimen is thought to be from about 28 thousand years ago.
14 ½" / 36.8 cm Long