Summary:

Complete mastodon jawbone discovered in a New York backyard!
The find includes a jawbone, toe bone, and rib fragments.
First such discovery in New York in over 11 years!
Researchers hope to learn about the mastodon's age, diet, and habitat.
The discovery highlights the rich paleontological history of the region.

Ice Age Discovery Rocks New York!

A New York state resident made an incredible discovery: a complete mastodon jawbone, just beneath their lawn! The jaw, believed to be from an adult mastodon, was unearthed after the homeowner spotted two large teeth poking out of the ground.

The find includes:

The jawbone itself (a first in NY in over 11 years!)
A toe bone fragment
A rib fragment

Researchers from the New York State Museum and SUNY Orange are thrilled. This is one of 150 mastodon fossils found in the state, with about a third discovered in Orange County. They plan to determine the mastodon's age, diet, and habitat.

What's so special about mastodons?

Unlike mammoths, mastodons were believed to have used their boxy teeth to crush twigs, leaves, and other plant matter.

"While the jaw is the star, the toe and rib fragments offer valuable context," says Dr. Cory Harris of SUNY Orange. Further investigation of the site is planned to see if more remains are found.

This discovery is a significant contribution to understanding ice age ecosystems in the region, according to Dr. Robert Feranec of the New York State Museum. This adds another exciting chapter to the rich paleontological history of New York!

Source: The Guardian US