Ancient Hornless Rhino Thrived in Arctic Forests 23 Million Years Ago

A newly discovered ancient hornless rhino species, Epiatheracerium itjilik, thrived in the Arctic forests of Devon Island 23 million years ago, reshaping our understanding of prehistoric ecosystems.

• The ancient hornless rhino species, Epiatheracerium itjilik, lived in forested habitats near lakes on Devon Island, Nunavut, Canada, 23 million years ago during the Miocene epoch.
• Fossil evidence, including well-preserved skeletons, indicates that this rhinoceros species coexisted with diverse wildlife, such as the transitional seal Puijila darwini, in a warmer Arctic climate.
• This significant fossil find contributes to our understanding of how species adapted to changing climates in North America and the ecological dynamics of prehistoric Arctic environments.