Fossil of ancient four-legged whale with hooves discovered

Giant 42.6m-year-old fossil was found along coast of Peru and suggests creature could walk on landAn ancient four-legged whale with hooves has been discovered, providing new insights into how the ancestors of the Earth ’s largest mammals made the transition from land to sea.The giant 42.6m-year-old fossil, discovered in marine sediments along the coast of Peru, appears to have been adapted for a semi-aquatic lifestyle. Its hoofed feet and the shape of its legs suggest it would have been capable of bearing the weight of its bulky four metre long body and walking on land. Other anatomical features, including a powerful tail and webbed feet similar to an otter suggest it was also a strong swimmer.Continue reading...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: Archaeology Science Whales Cetaceans Environment Marine life Wildlife Source Type: news