1. Large Herbivores: Saber-toothed cats, such as Smilodon, would prey on herbivores that could provide a substantial amount of meat and nutrients. Some typical prey species included:
- Ground Sloths: Giant ground sloths like Megatherium and Eremotherium were common prey for saber-toothed cats in the Americas.
- Mammoths, Mastodons, and Elephants: Saber-toothed cats are known to have hunted and killed these large proboscideans.
- Bison, Musk Ox, and Antelope: In North America and Europe, saber-toothed cats likely hunted these herbivores.
- Camels: Saber-toothed cats have been found associated with camel fossils in certain regions.
- Horses and Tapirs: Equine species and tapirs were also part of their prey base.
2. Smaller Herbivores: In addition to large herbivores, saber-toothed cats may have occasionally hunted smaller prey, including:
- Deer, Elk, and Caribou: These were relatively smaller, but widely available prey species.
- Rabbits and Hares: Smaller prey could have served as a supplementary food source.
3. Scavenging: Like many other carnivores, saber-toothed cats were likely opportunistic and would have scavenged on carcasses of deceased animals, especially during times of scarcity.
4. Selective Predation: Saber-toothed cats were powerful predators, but they likely targeted specific and vulnerable individuals within a herd. They may have focused on old, young, or sick animals, which would have been easier to catch and would provide a quick meal.
It's important to note that the exact dietary preferences and prey choices of different saber-toothed cat species may have varied depending on their specific habitats, habitats, and the availability of prey species.