130m-year-old skull belongs to formerly unknown species

A well-preserved historic crocodile skull has been declared a new species.

130m-year-old skull belongs to formerly unknown species

The specimen, which is 130 million-years-old, has been named Goniopholis Kiplini after Rudyard Kipling — author of The Jungle Book — in recognition of his enthusiasm for natural sciences.

Dating to the early Cretaceous period, when dinosaurs walked the earth, the animal would have lived with other crocodiles as well as turtles and fish in the shallow lagoon that covered much of Purbeck, Dorset.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €130 €65

Best value

Monthly €12€6 / month

More in this section

Lunchtime News

Newsletter

Keep up with stories of the day with our lunchtime news wrap and important breaking news alerts.

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited