Pristichampsus was an ancient species of crocodile that lived from about 56 to 35 million years ago. Fossils have been unearthed in both Europe (Germany) and North America (Wyoming). What makes the Pristichampsus so special? Its longer legs combined with what some scientists believe to be hooves instead of claws suggest that this croc could run.
During the Eocene Epoch, Pristichampsus and its cousins were largely land bound. Heavily armored and up 10 feet long, this croc became a super-predator, taking the honor from the dinosaurs, who died out 65 million years ago. As time progressed, crocodiles eventually returned to the rivers, where they’ve stayed ever since.
Gutsy zoologist and reptile expert Abby dropped out of college when she was offered her dream job in the lizard house. With the exception of spiders, she prefers the company of animals to humans.
Pristichampsus
Pristichampsus was an ancient species of crocodile that lived from about 56 to 35 million years ago. Fossils have been unearthed in both Europe (Germany) and North America (Wyoming). What makes the Pristichampsus so special? Its longer legs combined with what some scientists believe to be hooves instead of claws suggest that this croc could run.
During the Eocene Epoch, Pristichampsus and its cousins were largely land bound. Heavily armored and up 10 feet long, this croc became a super-predator, taking the honor from the dinosaurs, who died out 65 million years ago. As time progressed, crocodiles eventually returned to the rivers, where they’ve stayed ever since.
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