Geology and Paleontology of Red Rock Canyon
Extinct Rhino

Upper: Left lower jaw of an extinct rhino Teleoceras meridianum showing four complete cheek teeth (one premolar on the left end and three molars to the right). Teleoceras had limbs that were very short and stout and an enormous and rounded ribcage.  The overall appearance was similar to the modern Hippopotamus and a similar semiaquatic lifestyle has often been envisioned. Recent studies discount this in favor of a purely terrestrial lifestyle, which is supported by dental features suggesting a grazing diet. Teleoceras has been found in much of the western United States during the late Cenozoic. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County catalogue number 59613. Click image or here for a larger picture.