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Cave Bear Skeleton. Ursus uralensis. Pleistocene. Russia. ...
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Description
Cave Bear SkeletonUrsus uralensis
Pleistocene
Russia
Cave Bears, so called as most fossils of the "Ice Age" mammal have been found in caves, were a major creature from the Pleistocene which went extinct approximately 24,000 years ago. While some fossils measured as large as 11.5 feet (3.5 meters) when rearing up, this articulated specimen stands at a much more modest height as displayed reaching just a bit over 7 feet (2.1 meters) in all of its ominous glory. Secondary analysis now indicates this specimen was of the of the uralensis species from Russia making it similar to, but not a true, Cave Bear.
Cave Bears of the species spelaeus were the largest of all bears, even outsizing the numerous varieties of bears known today. This specimen, presented in a dominant "attacking" position, is outstanding with a great, larger skull, which measures nearly 17 inches (43.18 cm) in length. While their appearance may not be indicative, Cave Bears likely lived a primarily herbivorous diet. Given a relatively recent extinction from the fossil record, Cave Bears likely competed with humans in terms of occupying caves of the time although it is not believed Homo sapiens of the "Ice Age" directly hunted bears as with mammoths and mastodons. True Cave Bears had pronounced ridges on their skulls, while examples of this variety featured a more sloping skull in shape.
The superlative nature of this fully mounted specimen on a custom metal armature is the completeness of the fossil with some 80 to 90 percent real bone material. The pelvis is about 50 percent, the proximal ends of the femurs and processes on the vertebrae have some restoration, there is minor restoration on the ribs and some restoration is visible on the proximal end of the left humerus as well as the nasal area of the skull. The claws and teeth are 100 percent intact, and the toes show only some minor restoration. This "Cave Bear-like" specimen is quite impressive.
The golden coloration of the fossilized bones and the impactful aesthetic display of the piece combine to result in a museum quality specimen. This majestic, towering beast is certain to be a conversation starter in any environment, and its size allows for presentation in typical rooms and offices of normal 8-foot ceiling heights. This fossil can easily be assembled and/or disassembled and is relatively portable given it is relatively lightweight for its size. The fossil is a 'top tier' representation for its quality, completeness and visual appeal. This full skeleton is ominous looking and has a "live" quality to its stature. Although not a true Cave Bear, this is still one amazing fossil bear!
Overall Measurements: 86.00 x 49.00 x 32.00 inches (218.44 x 124.46 x 81.28 cm)
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