Inner Ear - But Whose?

[Shellseeker]

Searching the net, I found this photo of a Llama inner ear.

http://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/fossil-mammal-fossils-llama-inner-ear-bone

I was looking for an inner ear because I found this fossil in late August.

They look the same although the one I have, has a noticeable bulge on center right and I do like the small "canal" hole in the center. Naturally, I jumped to the conclusion that mine is a Llama/Camel, which may have been the same animal 500k years ago. Local experts, who I respect say no, more likely an alligator or crocodile. More photos below -- anyone seen something like this before?

[Harry Pristis]

Searching the net, I found this photo of a Llama inner ear.

http://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/fossil-mammal-fossils-llama-inner-ear-bone

I was looking for an inner ear because I found this fossil in late August.

They look the same although the one I have, has a noticeable bulge on center right and I do like the small "canal" hole in the center. Naturally, I jumped to the conclusion that mine is a Llama/Camel, which may have been the same animal 500k years ago. Local experts, who I respect say no, more likely an alligator or crocodile. More photos below -- anyone seen something like this before?

These bones (periotics?) are distinctive . . . that is, they are diagnostic to species. Taxonomists love 'em. Me, I could never get interested in these bones . . . they're just not very "sexy."

It would take an investment of time at the museum to build your own reliable comparative collection of these bones; but, you'd not have much competition for specimens from other collectors. You have the opportunity to become THE amateur expert on these bones!