Hyaenodon
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Despite appearances, Hyaenodon is not related to wolves or hyenas. It is a creodont, and its closest living relative is the pangolin! Hyaenodon is known from many species throughout the northern hemisphere and Africa, ranging from ferret-sized to the size of a large bear. H. horridus, from North America is about the size of a large wolf. Superficially doglike, Hyaenodon is quite chunky and robust. It has a short neck and a long, narrow skull. Its jaws are built for bone-crushing. Interestingly, as a Hyaenodon ages, its molars rotate inwards, keeping the teeth sharp. Its senses are well-developed, befitting an arch predator. Hyaenodon can be found in the Cenozoic North America exhibit. |
Scientific name Location Time Length Diet |