In Depth
Originally described as a species of Miacis, M. winkleri, the species was split from Miacis and re-established as a distinct genus called Gracilocyon in 2010. Another former Miacis species, M. rosei has also been attributed Gracilocyon. Gracilocyon would have still been similar to Miacis in form and size, and would have hunted other animals such as small rodents and perhaps even nesting birds.
Further Reading
- A new genus of “miacid” carnivoran from the earliest Eocene of Europe and North America. - Acta Palaeontologica Polonica 55(4):761-764. - T. Smith & R. Smith - 2010.