The very cat-like Hoplophoneus were probably as capable of climbing trees as the modern day leopard, and it is believed that they would have made their homes on the edge of the forests. The primitive low-crowned horses such as Mesohippus were thought to be forest dwelling browsers, which would have put the two species in frequent contact with each other. Although horses were not the principal prey of the Nimravid ‘cats’, altercations such as this one would no doubt have happened with some regularity.

Hoplophoneus attacks the rearing Mesohippus as these ancient adversaries square off in the ever-constant battle for survival in the Oligocene world.

Add some drama to your Badlands display with this provocative exhibit.