Dinictis Skull BC-030
Dinictis felina
7" L x 4 ¼" W x 3 ¾" H 17.6L x 10.6W X 9.7H (cm)
(Stand included)
Dinictis lived on the plains of North America 35-40 m.y.a. Ancestors to modern cats, this ancient skull is reminiscent of today's Clouded Leopard Skull, Male (BC-005). About the size of today's cougar, dinictis had short, powerful legs and a long tail. Unlike extant felines, which walk on their toes, they were more flat-footed. The canines are elongated as with the later occurring saber-toothed cats but not as pronounced. This feature coupled with their smaller size leads to their label as the 'false sabertooth' cat. 2-part skull (separate cranium & jaw).
This rare specimen is from the Brule Formation in South Dakota. Our Bone Clones® skull is finished to replicate its original, beautiful stone-slate color. The stand shown is included.