Brontotherium (Megacerops) coloradensis – Life-Size Museum-Grade Skull Cast with Dual Nasal Horns | Oligocene Titanothere from White River Formation, South Dakota
Detailed Description
(Perfect for Museum Gift Shops, Science Centers, Classrooms, and High-End Retail Paleontology Displays)
This museum-quality, life-size skull replica of Brontotherium (Megacerops) coloradensis is one of the most dramatic and recognizable mammals of the North American Oligocene (~33–30 Ma). Cast directly from an original adult male specimen housed in the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), this 1:1 scale reproduction captures every anatomical detail—from the massive, battering-ram nasal horns to the deeply rooted, hypsodont cheek teeth adapted for abrasive grasses.
Taxonomic & Evolutionary Context
- Scientific Name:Megacerops coloradensis (Leidy, 1870) (Formerly Brontotherium hatcheri – now recognized under the genus Megacerops)
- Family: Brontotheriidae
- Order: Perissodactyla (odd-toed ungulates)
- Age: Late Eocene to Early Oligocene – Chadronian NALMA (~34–32 Ma)
- Formation:White River Group – Chadron & Brule Formations
- Locality: Badlands of South Dakota (Scenic Member), Nebraska, Wyoming
- Paleoecology: Open woodlands transitioning to grasslands; coexisted with early horses (Mesohippus), oreodonts, and saber-toothed nimravids
Skull Morphology & Display Features
- Total Length: 86 cm (34 in) from premaxilla to occipital condyle
- Width Across Zygomatics: 58 cm (23 in)
- Height (with horns): 62 cm (24.5 in)
- Weight (cast): ~11.3 kg (25 lbs) – lightweight yet durable
Key Anatomical Highlights:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Nasal Horns | Paired, bony protuberances (up to 28 cm long) fused at base; covered in life with keratin sheaths for display/combat |
| Dentition | Full adult dentition: I 0/3, C 0/1, P 4/4, M 3/3; high-crowned, lophodont molars for grinding tough vegetation |
| Nasal Aperture | Massive, retracted opening – indicates possible trunk or proboscis |
| Orbits | Laterally placed; large for keen vision in open terrain |
| Occipital Crest | Broad, muscular attachment for powerful neck |
Casting & Production Quality
- Mold Source: Direct silicone mold of AMNH 12100 – a complete, uncrushed adult male skull from the Chadron Formation, South Dakota
- Material: High-density polyurethane resin with integrated fiberglass reinforcement in stress zones
- Finish:
- Hand-painted in natural bone tones with subtle weathering and staining
- Matte sealant for UV protection and fingerprint resistance
- Horns cast in translucent amber resin to simulate keratin (removable for study)
- Accuracy: Sub-millimeter surface detail – includes vascular grooves, suture lines, and perimortem tooth wear
- Mounting:
- Integrated steel mounting plate on underside
- Compatible with standard wall bracket or pedestal stand (sold separately)
Educational & Retail Integration
- In-Store Display Sign Included (as shown):
“White River Titan: Brontotherium” The rhinoceros-like giant of the Oligocene badlands. Males used massive nasal horns in head-butting battles for dominance — much like modern rams. This 1:1 cast is from a 2.5-ton adult that roamed South Dakota 32 million years ago. Item #BT-SKULL-01 | $1,195.00
- QR Code Links to:
- 3D rotating model (Sketchfab)
- Free downloadable teacher guide (NGSS-aligned)
- “Build Your Own Titanothere” coloring sheet
- Perfect Pairings (Sold Separately):
- Mesohippus skeleton cast
- Hyaenodon skull
- White River matrix diorama base
Ideal For
| Venue | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Museum Gift Shops | High-margin hero item; draws crowds |
| Science Centers | Interactive “touch cast” station |
| Classrooms (AP Biology / Paleontology) | Comparative anatomy with modern rhinos |
| Home Decor (Man Cave / Library) | Statement piece with scientific credibility |
| Film & TV Prop Departments | Accurate, durable, lightweight |
Product Specifications
- SKU: BT-SKULL-01
- Edition: Open edition (museum-approved cast)
- Certificate of Authenticity: Included (signed by lead paleontologist)
- Packaging: Double-boxed with custom foam insert
- Shipping: Fully insured, climate-controlled
- Warranty: 5 years against manufacturing defects
“Not a rhino. Not an elephant. But a 5,000-pound horned battering ram that vanished 30 million years ago — now reborn in stunning detail.”
Bring the badlands to life. Add the ultimate Oligocene icon to your collection today. Free U.S. shipping on orders over $500. International shipping available.
