Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ancient Apex Predator Skull Discovered in Egypt

2/24/2025

43 4

Summary

Story summary

Paleontologists in Egypt have unearthed a nearly intact skull of Bastetodon syrtos, a newly recognized apex predator from the long-gone Hyaenodonta order. This remarkable 30-million-year-old fossil, discovered in the Fayum Depression, sheds light on ancient ecosystems and the challenges that led to the extinction of these fascinating creatures, including climate shifts and competition from today's carnivores.

1 of 1

Story summary

Paleontologists in Egypt have unearthed a nearly intact skull of Bastetodon syrtos, a newly recognized apex predator from the long-gone Hyaenodonta order. This remarkable 30-million-year-old fossil, discovered in the Fayum Depression, sheds light on ancient ecosystems and the challenges that led to the extinction of these fascinating creatures, including climate shifts and competition from today's carnivores.