A taphonomic study of Clarendonian (Miocene) Teleoceras (Perissodactyla, Rhinocerotoidea) from the Ogallala Formation, northwestern Kansas

This study was conducted to determine the taphonomic history of a small vertebrate fossil assemblage in Decatur County, northwestern Kansas. Fossil samples were collected from Miocene sandstone deposits located slightly south of the north fork of the Sappa Creek near the town of Oberlin, Kansas.; Examination of bones and comparative skeletal anatomy with specimens from University of Nebraska State Museum enabled identification of Teleoceras to the species level. Canine impressions, gnawing and crushing visible on several bones suggest the occurrence of predation and possibly scavenging. The bones showed no preferred orientation but the degree of inclination exhibited great variability with many bones plunging steeply into the sediment. Analysis of osteological data allowed for interpretation of bone deposition and cause of death. Possible explanations for bone accumulation at this quarry include: predation/scavenging, starvation/thirst, interspecific strife, disease, and accidental death. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)...