With large, razor-sharp fangs, the scimitar cat (Homotherium serum) is arguably one of the most awe-inspiring animals of the Ice Age.

The scimitar cat was roughly the size of a lion, but with a lighter body that gave it more running flexibility than its Ice Age cousins, the saber-tooth cat and American lion. It had a short tail like the lynx, long, powerfulforelimbs but poorly developed hindquarters that gave it a hyena-like stance. While most cats see best at night, scimitar skulls have brain impressions indicating it could also see well in daylight, like themodern cheetah.