Fossil of a prehistoric camel with large, single-rooted canine teeth, nicknamed 'vampire camel', was discovered in North America.

What it means

Researchers have formally described a new genus and species of extinct camel, Vampyrocamelus welshi, from Miocene fossils found in Texas and Oklahoma. The nickname 'vampire camel' refers to its prominent, single-rooted canine teeth, which may have been used for fighting or display rather than blood-feeding. The study, reported by Science (AAAS) News, provides new details on the diversity and ecology of ancient North American camels.

Accuracy & sourcesGrounded

The claim is based on a peer-reviewed paleontological study describing the fossil material. Science News is a reputable secondary source closely reporting on the primary scientific paper, which likely appears in a journal such as the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology or similar.

How new

This is genuinely new coverage published on November 13, 2026, based on a recent scientific description.

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