Unknown Bone

[Jurassic J]

I found this bone in a creek in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I have asked some hunters and farmers what it could be but nobody seems to know. It appears old but modern. There looks to be a suture mark or perhaps an old fracture or some pathology.  I would appreciate any insight into what bone this may be. Or where I might look to find something to compare? Thank you.

[Harry Pristis]

Castor canadensis (beaver) femur.

 

 

 

 

[ClearLake]

@Harry Pristis has nailed it perfectly, only thing I can add is that it is the right femur.  Very nice coloration on that.

Edited January 5, 2023 by ClearLake

[Jurassic J]

Thank you very much for responding and answering a question I have wondered for several years. I never would have guessed femur cause that trochanter confused me. I also thought the bone looked really old but I guess it from being underwater. Because it looked so old I never even thought to compare it with animals animals that currently live there.

 

Given that mine is much smaller than the comparison I am guessing mine was young, and that mark mid-shaft must have been a fracture that healed? It's funny how answers just lead to more questions.

 

Thanks again for sharing your time and knowledge. It is appreciated.

[Mahnmut]

Hi Jurassic J,

the missing epiphyses would also fit a juvenile animal, although if not for the size that may be just erosion.

Best regards,

J