Large, bone-crushing dogs stalked 'Rhino Pompeii' after Yellowstone eruption 12 million years ago, ancient footprints reveal

Ancient Predators in the Ashfall Fossil Beds

Researchers uncovered well-preserved footprints of massive, bone-crushing dogs in the 12‑million‑year‑old Ashfall Fossil Beds located in northeastern Nebraska, United States. These prehistoric predators once roamed a landscape devastated by volcanic ashfall following a major eruption near present-day Yellowstone.

Discovery and Geological Context

The site, often described as a “Rhino Pompeii,” preserves the remains of more than 200 animals, buried suddenly by thick volcanic ash. This fine sediment captured an extraordinary moment in time, preserving skeletons, trackways, and even delicate impressions in near-perfect condition.

The canine footprints, which measure up to several inches in diameter, belong to a group of large dog-like carnivores called Epicyon haydeni. These formidable hunters stood nearly 3 feet tall at the shoulder and weighed around 150 pounds. Researchers believe they fed on large herbivores such as ancient rhinos and camels that frequented the watering holes.

Life and Death Scene

The fossilized traces suggest that these predators arrived at the site after many herbivores had died from ash inhalation. Their tracks weave around partially buried carcasses, hinting at scavenging behavior. This detailed scene allows scientists to reconstruct a rare, moment-by-moment record of life — and death — in an ancient ecosystem.

Scientific Significance

The footprint discovery enriches understanding of predator-prey dynamics during the Miocene epoch. Combined with skeletal fossils, the prints help confirm the presence and behavior of these apex predators in post-eruption environments.

“Ashfall is one of the only sites where both the animals and their final movements are preserved together,” said paleontologist Ross Secord, one of the study’s authors.

This find highlights how catastrophic volcanic events shaped North America’s ecosystems long before human history began.

Author’s summary: Ancient footprints in Nebraska reveal bone-crushing dogs scavenging a volcanic kill site, offering a vivid glimpse of predator behavior 12 million years ago.

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Live Science Live Science — 2025-11-27

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