Russia uncovers the first mummified Ice Age saber-tooth cub

Paleontologists recently discovered the first mummified saber-tooth cub in northeast Russia, described as a part of the scimitar-toothed cat family. The mummy, estimated to be 35,000 to 37,000 years old, features well-preserved features including fur, muzzle, claws, foot pads, and more. The discovery is significant as mummified felines are rare due to preservation conditions, and the only other mummified saber-tooth cub skull was found in Texas in the 1950s. Scientists plan to conduct DNA analysis and further studies on the mummy. The Homotherium genus, to which the cub belongs, was widespread throughout Eurasia, Africa, and the Americas during the Plio-Pleistocene period. This unique find provides valuable insights into the life and appearance of these ancient cats and offers a rare opportunity to study a well-preserved specimen from this time period.

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