A newly discovered fossil has revealed the dramatic last moments of a prehistoric sea cow, which fell prey to both a crocodile and a shark around 15 million years ago. This rare fossil, found in Venezuela, belongs to an extinct dugong species and provides a unique glimpse into the predator-prey dynamics of the Miocene Epoch.

 Two Predators, One Unlucky Sea Cow
Researchers identified three distinct types of bite marks on the fossilized remains, suggesting a fierce struggle between the sea cow and its predators. The initial attack was likely from a crocodile, which attempted to suffocate the sea cow by targeting its snout. The evidence of a “death roll,” a behavior still observed in modern crocodiles, further supports this scenario.

The sea cow was later scavenged by a tiger shark, which left a tooth embedded in the sea cow’s neck. This discovery underscores the complexity of ancient food chains and the brutal realities of prehistoric life.

The Significance of Tropical Fossil Sites
The study, published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, highlights the importance of exploring less traditional fossil sites, like those in tropical regions. The discovery not only adds to our understanding of prehistoric ecosystems but also emphasizes the rich potential for new findings in areas like South America, which was once a haven for diverse crocodilian species.