Leptictis Skull Replica

Description

Leptictis skull replica measures 2.8 x 1.2 x 0.9 inches. The Lepticitis haydeni is a museum-quality polyurethane resin cast. 1:1 scale. Made in USA.

Leptictis is an extinct mammal from North America. They lived during the Late Eocene and Early Oligocene epochs. Joseph Leidy named the main species, L. haydeni, in 1868. He chose this name to honor Ferdinand Vandeveer Hayden.

These prehistoric animals had surprisingly large brains for their body size. Their brain ratio was similar to early primates. These two main species lacked a specific artery in their skulls.

Their back legs were much longer than their front legs. This feature made them look similar to modern elephant shrews. They did not hop on two legs. They used their short front legs for digging.

They were primarily insectivores. They focused on hunting small invertebrates. Their main diet consisted of various ancient insects. They also targeted spiders and beetles. Their broad snouts suggest they could capture small vertebrates.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Mammalia
• Order: †Leptictida
• Family: †Leptictidae
• Genus: †Leptictis Leidy, 1868
• Type species: †Lepticitis haydeni
• Conservation status: Extinct

Lector, the Leptictis skull replica, is enjoying a day on the beach collecting seashells. So far the largest shell found is a beautiful abalone shell.

Sly, the African striped weasel skull replica, found three really cute brightly colored snail shells.

Pillsberry, the American badger skull replica, found purple coral that is really sharp.

Mine, the Eurasian ermine skull replica, found four Queen Conch shells. She has not put them down since and is pressing one against her ear listening to the ocean.