Saber-toothed tigers varied in size, with some species reaching lengths of over 10 feet (3 meters) and weighing over 500 pounds (227 kilograms). They had a robust build, with powerful jaws and strong neck muscles to support their large canines. Their fur was typically short and brownish in color, with some species exhibiting spots or stripes.
The most distinctive feature of saber-toothed tigers was their upper canines, which could grow up to 7 inches (18 centimeters) long. These teeth were flattened from side to side and had serrated edges, making them ideal for cutting through flesh. Saber-toothed tigers also had large lower jaw muscles to help them deliver a powerful bite.
In addition to their prominent canines, saber-toothed tigers had several other adaptations that made them successful predators. They had long legs and powerful hindquarters that allowed them to reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour (56 kilometers per hour). They also had sharp claws that were used for gripping prey and climbing trees.
Saber-toothed tigers inhabited a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and savannas. They were found in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. The last known species of saber-toothed tiger, Smilodon populator, became extinct around 10,000 years ago, at the end of the Pleistocene epoch.
The extinction of saber-toothed tigers is thought to have been caused by a combination of factors, including climate change, competition from other predators, and hunting by humans. Their large size and specialized teeth made them vulnerable to changes in their environment and food sources. As the climate changed and the grasslands they inhabited began to disappear, saber-toothed tigers were unable to adapt and eventually became extinct.