2.8" Brontothere Fossil Vertebrae Bone Eocene Age Badlands S Dakota Titanothere COA

Location: White River Badlands, South Dakota

Weight: 11.9 Ounces

Dimensions: 2.8 Inches Long, 2.6 Inches Wide, 2.5 Inches Thick (Matrix)

Eocene Age, 56 to 33.9 million years Old.

Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

The item pictured is the one you will receive. 

The Brontothere stands as a testament to prehistoric megafauna, a massive mammal that traversed the Badlands landscape during the Eocene epoch, spanning approximately 56 to 33.9 million years ago. Known scientifically as Megacerops coloradensis, this formidable creature derives its evocative name—"thunder beast"—from the thunderous reverberations produced by herds moving through ancient terrain. The nomenclature "titanothere" reflects both its imposing stature and the geological significance of this species. This authentic vertebrate specimen provides a tangible connection to deep time, offering collectors and paleontology enthusiasts a genuine artifact from South Dakota's renowned fossil deposits.

Badlands brontotheres exemplify one of evolution's most dramatic transformations—creatures that began as modest, dog-sized mammals during the early Eocene and evolved into colossal beasts rivaling modern elephants and large rhinoceroses, reaching 8 feet in height and 16 feet in length. This remarkable size increase unfolded across 20 million years of adaptive radiation and diversification. The species' most distinctive feature—paired nasal horns—underwent equally impressive development, expanding from diminutive protrusions into formidable structures exceeding 3.3 feet in length, typically more pronounced in males. Though superficially resembling modern rhinos, brontotheres occupy a distinct evolutionary lineage, with contemporary Badlands fossils revealing true rhinocerid ancestors such as Subhyracodon. This vertebral specimen encapsulates millions of years of evolutionary innovation.