8-million-year-old rhino skull found in Crete

An 8-million-year-old rhinoceros skull has been discovered in Sitia, Crete, according to Greek news agency ANA. The skull, belonging to the Dihoplus pikermiensis species, dates back 8 to 8.5 million years, making it significant for understanding the ancient fauna of western Eurasia during the late Miocene period. The Dihoplus pikermiensis was a large, two-horned rhinoceros, typical of the Pikermian fauna prevalent in the region during that era.

In March of last year, during paleontological research in the Magantze and Trapeza areas of Sitia Geopark, fossilized bones, including the skull, were unearthed. Sitia Geopark, part of UNESCO's global network of geoparks, boasts a paleontological history spanning nearly 300 million years. Among the preserved remains being studied are three intact upper molars from the left jaw, which could provide valuable insights into the animal's diet and age.