The term "saber-toothed tiger" refers to a group of prehistoric carnivorous mammals known as saber-toothed cats. They lived during the Pleistocene epoch, approximately 2.5 million to 10,000 years ago. The most famous species is Smilodon, characterized by its long, curved canine teeth, which could grow up to 8 inches long. These animals were powerful predators, primarily hunting large herbivores. Saber-toothed cats had robust bodies and strong limbs, allowing them to take down prey effectively. They were not true tigers but belonged to a different family, Felidae. Fossils have been found in various locations, including North America and South America, providing insight into their behavior and habitat.