A remarkably well-preserved mummified cub of a saber-toothed cat, dating back approximately 35,000 years, has been unearthed in the permafrost of Siberia. The discovery, initially made in 2020 northeast of Yakutia, Russia, is detailed in a study published in *Scientific Reports
on 14 November 2024. The exceptional state of preservation, attributed to the freezing conditions, offers a unique opportunity for palaeontological research.
The finding is described as "very rare" by the researchers, who note that most similar discoveries in Russia are located within the Indigirka River basin. The near-perfect preservation is evident in the cubâs remarkably intact fur. The study details the fur as "short, thick, soft, dark brown, with hair approximately 20â30 mm long," noting that the fur on the back and neck was longer than that on the legs. The head, chest, forelimbs, and paws are also exceptionally well-preserved.
This exceptional preservation allows for unprecedented analysis. The researchers highlight the significance of the discovery, stating that it is "the first time in the history of palaeontology that the appearance of an extinct mammal with no modern analogues has been studied in such detail."
The cub, identified as *Homotherium latidens*, was determined to have been around three weeks old at the time of death. Significant morphological differences were observed when comparing the cub to modern lion cubs of a similar age. These differences include the shape of its muzzle â featuring a large mouth, small ears, and a "massive" neck â along with its long forelimbs and darker coat.
The study further investigates the adaptations of *Homotherium latidens
to its frigid environment. The large paws, lacking carpal pads, are believed to have been crucial for navigating snowy terrain. This analysis contributes significantly to our understanding of the species' survival strategies in the Late Pleistocene.
The discovery adds to a growing number of remarkable ancient animal finds emerging from Siberian permafrost. For example, a mummified wolf dating back over 44,000 years was discovered in 2021, as reported by Live Science in June 2024. The ongoing thawing of the permafrost continues to reveal a wealth of ancient life, providing invaluable insights into prehistoric ecosystems and extinct species. This exceptionally preserved saber-toothed cub provides a particularly compelling window into the past, offering crucial data to further understand this enigmatic creature and its environment. The detailed study promises to reshape our understanding of *Homotherium latidens
and its adaptations to the harsh conditions of the Late Pleistocene.