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Lot 8347

Saber-toothed Cat Skeleton

3 December 2006, 11:00 PST
Los Angeles

Sold for US$29,875 inc. premium

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Saber-toothed Cat Skeleton

Dinictus squalidens
Oligocene
White River Badlands, South Dakota

Throughout evolutionary history, saber-toothed cats evolved four separate times. This process, known as convergent evolution, involves structures that evolve in unrelated animals, challenging scientists in placement of the feline-like animals in these families. One of the earliest species of saber-toothed cats, Dinictus squalidens was a swift predator and probably fed on smaller animals. From the Nimravidae family, it is believed that this species was related to modern cats. Displayed in a jumping position, the present skeleton has been mounted professionally with missing bones restored. Approximately 75 per cent original, the pre-dentary and pre-maxilla have been restored; both of the sabers have restored tips. Fairly complete skeletons such as the present specimen are uncommon. Measures 46in

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