A Statistical Study of the Metapodials of Equus Occidentalis Leidy

Abstract

A survey and statistical analysis of most of the skeletal elements of the Rancho La Brea horse (E. occidentalis Leidy) and of other equine species living and extinct, is being made by the author. In the present paper the only bones of E. occidentalis to be dealt with are the fore and hind metapodials. Although skeletal remains of this species of horse occur likewise in the Pleistocene asphalt of McKittrick, California, only the metapodials of the Rancho La Brea horse are here treated statistically. The skeletal elements of Equus occidentalis in the Rancho La Brea collection of the Los Angeles Museum were generously made available for measurement and study. It is a pleasure to acknowledge the opportunity to analyze these specimens.