The mummy of a three-week-old saber-toothed cub stayed well-preserved over 35,000 years thanks to its frozen condition
A remarkable discovery in Siberia’s permafrost has shed light on the ancient past, as a mummified saber-toothed cub dating back 35,000 years was found almost perfectly preserved. This incredible find was unearthed in 2020, northeast of Yakutia, Russia, and has since been the subject of a detailed study published in the journal Scientific Reports on November 14, 2024.
The rarity of discovering frozen remains from the Late Pleistocene period was emphasized in the research, with most findings in Russia concentrated in the Indigirka River basin. The mummified cub, frozen in time for millennia, remains remarkably intact, with its fur still present.
The researchers noted that the fur covering the cub’s body is short, thick, and soft, with hair measuring about 20-30 mm in length. Interestingly, the fur on the back and neck of the cub is longer than that on its legs. The head, chest, front arms, and paws of the mummy are also well-preserved, offering a unique glimpse into this ancient creature.
Identified as a three-week-old member of the species Homotherium latidens, the cub displayed distinct characteristics from modern lion cubs of a similar age. Its large mouth, small ears, massive neck, long forelimbs, and dark coat set it apart from its contemporary counterparts.
The study of this mummified cub presented a groundbreaking opportunity for scientists, as it provided insights into an extinct mammal with no modern analogues. The researchers delved into how this species adapted to survive in frigid temperatures, highlighting the importance of its large paws and the absence of carpal pads in navigating snowy terrain.
In recent years, Siberia’s permafrost has yielded other ancient animal remains, such as a mummified wolf dating back over 44,000 years, showcasing the richness of prehistoric life preserved in the region. This ongoing exploration of the past continues to unveil new insights into Earth’s ancient inhabitants.
The discovery of the mummified saber-toothed cub serves as a testament to the power of preservation in the frozen landscape of Siberia, offering a window into a world long gone but not forgotten. As researchers unravel the mysteries held within these ancient remains, the story of our planet’s past continues to unfold, piece by piece.
