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Paleontology is the scientific study of life that existed prior to, and sometimes including, the start of the Holocene Epoch roughly 11,700 years ago. It includes the examination of plant and animal fossils, which are the remains or impressions of prehistoric organisms preserved in petrified form or as a mold or cast in rock. This field of study encompasses various disciplines such as biology, geology, and anthropology to understand the evolution and extinction of species, their behavior, environment, and the Earth's history. In the context of "Animals" and "Extinct Animals," paleontology seeks to uncover the anatomy, physiology, ecology, and behavior of animals that are no longer alive. This includes famous creatures such as the Saber-Toothed Cat, a predatory mammal that became extinct over 10,000 years ago, which is known for its long canines used for hunting. Through the study of fossils, paleontologists aim to reconstruct the past and understand how ancient organisms interacted with their environment and each other, shedding light on the processes that shape biodiversity over time.