The rocks used to build Egypt’s famous Great Sphinx of Giza hold a surprising secret: they contain fossils of an extinct crocodile species that resembles India’s long-snouted gharial.

Named Herugavialis cairensis , the ancient reptile lived around 45 million years ago. Scientists identified it by re-examining fossils discovered in Egypt nearly a century ago, including a remarkably well-preserved skull. One unusual detail caught their attention: the tip of the snout was missing, much like the Sphinx’s nose.

How did scientists discover the new species?

Introducing Herugavialis cairensis. A new genus of fossil gavialoid crocodylian from the Middle Eocene of Egypt. Recovered from the Mokattam Formation, Herugavialis was found from the same rocks used to build the Great Sphinx and pyramids of Egypt

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— Dr Paul M. J. Burke (@palaeoburke) October 7, 2026

Paul M. J.…