Here's why:
* Predatory Behavior: Saber-toothed tigers were apex predators, meaning they hunted large prey. This likely required them to be adaptable and utilize various environments.
* Fossil Evidence: Fossils of saber-toothed tigers have been found in areas near water sources, indicating they likely inhabited such environments.
* Similar Animals: Modern big cats, like lions and tigers, are known to swim and even hunt in water. It's plausible that saber-toothed tigers possessed similar capabilities.
However, it's important to note:
* Specific Adaptations: Saber-toothed tigers had massive canines, which may have hindered their swimming ability.
* Habitat Variations: The specific species and habitats of saber-toothed tigers varied, so some might have been more comfortable around water than others.
Conclusion:
While we cannot say for sure whether saber-toothed tigers were "scared" of water, it's more likely they were not inherently averse to it. They probably swam and hunted in water as needed, depending on their environment and prey.