Scientists Stunned by 95-Million-Year-Old Croc Relative With Odd Teeth
Paleontologists have unearthed a pint-sized crocodyliform in Montana, and its discovery is shaking up what we thought we knew about crocodile evolution. This little creature, nicknamed ‘Elton,’ lived approximately 95 million years ago in what is now southwest Montana. Unlike its modern, fearsome relatives, Elton sported a set of seriously strange teeth that have scientists scratching their heads. 
Elton was not your average croc. He was a land-dweller, small in stature, and clearly had a unique diet based on his teeth. The discovery suggests that ancient crocodyliforms were experimenting with all kinds of lifestyles and diets, far beyond the water-loving, meat-chomping crocodiles we know today.
A Croc With a Smile That Puzzles the Pros
Let’s be honest, it’s not every day that a fossilized crocodile leaves scientists baffled and reconsidering evolutionary history. Elton’s unusual dental work could mean these ancient creatures had more diverse ecologies than we ever dreamed. Maybe next time you see a crocodile, just be glad it sticks to fish and not… whatever Elton was nibbling on!
Sources: SciTechDaily
