BoneClones® Canid Skull Comparison Economy Set

Explore variation within the canids.

Wolf, coyote, fox, domestic dog: what osteological features distinguish them?

This comparative set of four canids was created to demonstrate the differences and similarities within the family Canidae. The diversity in this family is a great area to begin the discussion of evolution and natural selection in the science classroom. Skull features can be compared and contrasted to demonstrate inheritance, modification and variation of traits. Features such as overall size, skull shape, tooth size, size of cheek bones and size of sagittal crest help to distinguish canids from one another. Additionally, each skull can be compared to their prospective habitats, bringing into focus discussions of animal adaptation, animal behavior, ecological and environmental concepts.

In visual arts curriculum, this set can be used for students to analyze form and its depiction in drawing and sculpting, as material for still life compositions, and as comparative anatomical reference for student’s own depictions of animals. These skulls can be used enrich student's knowledge as to how underlying form pertains to living animals, to compare historic and cultural uses of bone material for artistic purposes, and to teach about careers as scientific illustrators, film or fine artists. This set can be useful in satisfying some of the national and state requirements of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), The National Visual Arts Standards, and State Standards for Arts Education.