Megalonyx jeffersonii skeletal

megalonyx jeffersonii | procreate | 2025

I worked with the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History and paleontologist Wayne Thompson to reconstruct the Jefferson’s ground sloth after the discovery of a megalonyx radius in Santa Cruz county. Reconstructions of this taxa often have errors (such as pedolateral foot positions as opposed to the plantigrade position of megalonychids). This reconstruction brings a complete and more accurate lateral view of the skeletal with a life restoration included.

I went on to do 3 more skeletal/ life reconstructions for another plesitocene-related exhibit which included paramylodon, columbian mammoth, and pacific mastodon. The megalonyx plate was updated to fit the style of the others and depict a more natural pose.