Smilodon californicus - Definition and Overview

Smilodon californicus is sometimes considered a seperate species of the genus Smildon but is more likely a subspecies of Smilodon fatalis (as is Smilodon floridanus).

Smilodon (fatalis) californicus is the California state fossil, most abundantly found in the La Brea Tar Pits where it would have been caught in tar while pursuing prey.

See also Smilodon, Smilodon fatalis, Smilodon gracilis and Smilodon populator.

External references

• California: Smilodon californicus (state fossil) (http://www.statefossils.com/ca/ca.html)
• Dino Land State Fossils: Smilodon of California (http://www.geocities.com/stegob/smilodoncalifornia.html)
• Machairodontinae (Sabre-toothed Cats) (http://www.lioncrusher.com/Machairodontinae.htm)