Oreodont Skull Fossil. Merycoidodon gracilis. Oligocene. Brule Formation. Sioux County, Nebraska, USA. 5.3...

Description

Oreodont Skull Fossil
Merycoidodon gracilis
Oligocene
Brule Formation
Sioux County, Nebraska, USA
5.30 x 2.36 x 2.01 inches (13.47 x 5.99 x 5.11 cm)

While Oreodonts can often look rather ominous due to the presence of prominent canine teeth, these mammals were actually grazers representing prey rather than predators. This outstanding skull from an iconic variety known as Merycoidodon gracilis is rather small and in excellent condition. Restoration is relatively reasonable and blended over the bones and teeth of this fairly complete skull that measures nearly 5.5 inches (14 cm) in length. The creamy-colored offering is not as bleached as many fossils out of the famous White River Badlands and exhibits a nice rose hue. Unlike many skulls, this is inflated and balanced with two good sides.

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