Eryops

extinct · amphibian · prehistoric · tetrapod

Built like a predator. Eryops was about 5 feet long with a wide, flat head and sharp teeth, making it a fierce hunter in ancient swamps and streams. Its body was strong and muscular, perfect for chasing prey through water and shallow wetlands.

Fossil goldmine. Scientists have found many complete skeletons of Eryops in Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and other places, which is rare for such ancient creatures. Its bones and especially its teeth are among the most commonly discovered fossils from that time period.

Ancient amphibian. Eryops lived during the early Permian period, about 280 million years ago, when Earth's climate was hotter and drier than during the age of dinosaurs. It survived in the shallow waters of what we now call the Texas Red Beds.

Wide range. Fossils of Eryops have been found across North America, from Texas to Prince Edward Island in Canada, showing it lived in many different ancient environments. Different species like Eryops megacephalus and Eryops grandis lived in slightly different times and places.