Smilodon (10,000 B.C.)

The Smilodon (saber-toothed cat) lived in North and South America at the end of the last glacial period, though it evolved as a separate species around 2.5 million years ago. The largest subspecies, Smilodon populator, could reach 400 kg in weight, three meters in length, and 1.4 meters tall at the shoulder. Despite being called a saber-toothed tiger, it was actually built more like a bear, with short, powerful limbs that were not designed for speed. Its notable canines could reach 30 cm (one foot) in length but were fragile and mainly used for biting into soft neck tissue after its prey had been subdued. It could open its jaws 120 degrees but had a relatively weak bite.