The Tasmanian tiger was hunted to death for killing sheep; however, new research suggests that it had such weak jaws that its prey was more likely the size of a possum.
Researchers used advanced computer modelling to simulate various predatory behaviours. The thylacine’s skull was highly stressed compared to its close living relatives - the Tasmanian devil and the spotted-tailed quoll - in response to simulations of struggling prey.
“While there is still much debate about its diet and feeding behaviour, this new insight suggests that its inability to kill large prey may have hastened it on the road to extinction.” lead author Marie Attard said.
Read more at UNSW Sydney