Chalicothere

/ˈkælɪkoʊˌθɪr/ noun

Definition

An extinct mammal from the Tertiary and Quaternary periods that resembled a cross between a horse, camel, and ape, with claws instead of hooves.

Etymology

From Greek 'chalkos' (cup/chalice) plus 'therion' (beast). Named for the cup-shaped structure of their molars or the chalice-like shape of tooth fossils.

Kelly Says

Chalicotheres were bizarre animals with long arms and claws like a bear but the body of a hoofed mammal—for decades, paleontologists thought they were two different animals until they found complete skeletons.

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