Smilodon
20,000 years ago, there was a creature that walked the pine forests. Feared by most and with little predators, this ancient cat was at the top of its food chain! Known by the scientific name "Smilodon," its 7 inch canines were the ultimate weapon of defense and attack. Its teeth were as sharp as a serrated knife and powerful enough to crack a rock. It could open its jaw to a massive 120 degrees, coming close to the size of a modern day African lion. Their dominant speed and stealth allowed these fierce creatures to prey upon bigger and more dangerous animals.
Paleontologists believe the Smilodon lived and hunted in packs, allowing sick and wounded to recuperate. The group would hunt and find food for their injured or elders, this hypothesis was made because of the discovery of healed cuts found on Smilodon fossils. There are two types of a saber-toothed cats. One which is the one you are most familiar with is the Smilodon fatalis. The other type you are less familiar with is the Scimitar cat. They were almost the same, except for that the Scimitar had 4 inch canine teeth, while the Smilodon had had 7 inch canines. These are the interesting facts of the fascinating animal called the saber-toothed cat.