Loading

Fossils reveal that Eocene primates like Smilodectes were adapted for life in the trees. Their large, forward-looking eyes could focus simultaneously on the same point, giving them excellent depth perception. Stereoscopic vision, combined with an opposable thumb and a relatively large brain, enhanced their ability to live and feed treetops, beyond the reach of most terrestrial predators

Show lessRead more
  • Title: Early primate
  • Location: Bridger Formation, Sweetwater Co., Wyoming
  • Physical Dimensions: L: 45 cm W: 15 cm H: 62 cm
  • Type: Fossil
  • Rights: This image was obtained from the Smithsonian Institution. The image or its contents may be protected by international copyright laws. http://www.si.edu/termsofuse
  • External Link: View this object record in the Smithsonian Institution Collections Search Center
  • Weight: 15 kg
  • USNM Catalog Number(s): V17995
  • Scientific Name: <i>Smilodectes gracilis</i>
  • Photo Credit: Chip Clark, Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History
  • Historic Period: Lived 50–46 million years ago
  • Geologic Age: Cenozoic - Paleogene - Eocene - Bridgerian
  • Field: Paleobiology
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Get the app

Explore museums and play with Art Transfer, Pocket Galleries, Art Selfie, and more

Interested in Natural history?

Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly

You are all set!

Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.

Home
Discover
Play
Nearby
Favorites