How did the robust build of *E. haydeni* contrast with modern cursorial canids?
Answer
Stockier and more heavily muscled
While modern canids common today are often described as cursorial, meaning adapted for running, *Epicyon haydeni* possessed a notably different build. The textual description emphasizes that *E. haydeni* was considerably stockier and more heavily muscled compared to the gray wolf or other running-adapted canids. This physical structure suggests an evolutionary prioritization of raw strength and high bite force necessary for crushing bones, rather than prioritizing pure endurance running or sustained pursuit typical of lighter, loping hunters.
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