Short-Faced Bear
The Short-Faced Bear was a large prehistoric bear that lived during the Pleistocene epoch, approximately 1.2 million to 11,000 years ago. It is known for its long legs and short face, which gave it a unique appearance compared to modern bears. This bear was one of the largest terrestrial mammals, with some species weighing over 2,000 pounds.
Fossils of the Short-Faced Bear have been found across North America, indicating it roamed a variety of habitats. It was likely a versatile predator and scavenger, feeding on a diverse diet that included plants, small mammals, and carrion. Its extinction is believed to be linked to climate change and competition with other predators.