Fossil Sperm Whale Ear Bone (Scaldicetus sp.)

The Science

These Fossil Sperm Whale Ear Bones were found in the Southeast USA. The anatomical name for this bone is Tympanic Bulla. These fossils are 10 million years old (Miocene Epoch), which was a period when many recognizably modern animals evolved. 

The Story

Whale Ear Bones are more readily fossilized than other bones because they are denser. They were specially developed to protect the delicate auditory tissues of the animal. Whale Ear Bones differ from humans' in that they are specially adapted to hear underwater. Fun fact: Whales don't have external ear holes and vibrate their mandibles to create sounds (snakes do this too!).

DETAILS

SKU: FO-SL0015
Dimensions: Approximately 2.75"L x 1.5"W x 1.5"H
Scientific Name: Scaldicetus sp.
Origin: South East, USA.
Period: Miocene Epoch
Age: 10 Million Years Old
Shipping Restrictions: None.