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The New York Times recently published an article about Aldabra Atoll, an island in the Indian Ocean near Madagascar. This island is a predator-free paradise for more than 100,000 giant tortoises. However, a new study suggests that large crocodiles may have preyed upon them in prehistoric times.

UT paleontologist Stephanie Drumheller-Horton said, “The findings were supported by other examples of crocodile bite marks in the fossil record. Aldabra giant tortoises would have been tough nuts to crack, even for crocodiles, who can generate incredibly high bite forces.”