Sinonyx

Sinonyx is a genus of extinct saber-toothed cats that lived during the Miocene epoch, approximately 11.6 to 5.3 million years ago. The genus is known for its distinctive, curved canine teeth, which were adapted for slashing and tearing flesh. Sinonyx is one of the most well-represented genera of saber-toothed cats, with numerous species described from various parts of North America.

The most well-known species is Sinonyx pavlovici, which is known from fossils found in the United States and Canada. This species had a robust build and large canine teeth, which were up to 10 inches long. Another notable species is Sinonyx curtisi, which is known from fossils found in the United States and Mexico. This species had smaller canine teeth than S. pavlovici, but still had a robust build and was adapted for a carnivorous lifestyle.

Sinonyx is believed to have been a solitary hunter, preying on large mammals such as horses, camels, and deer. The genus is thought to have gone extinct around 5.3 million years ago, likely due to a combination of factors including climate change and competition from other predators. Despite its extinction, Sinonyx remains an important fossil record of the evolution of saber-toothed cats and the Miocene ecosystem.