Summary:
Complete mastodon jaw unearthed in New York's Hudson Valley – a first in over a decade!
Homeowner's discovery of teeth led to a larger excavation revealing a well-preserved jaw and other bone fragments.
Fossils will undergo analysis to determine the mastodon's age, diet, and habitat.
Discovery provides valuable insights into ancient ecosystems and the present world.
Fossils to be put on public display in 2025.
Amazing Mastodon Discovery in New York!
<img src="https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/12/18/a738cac6-c48a-481c-8629-3fcc0c98a465/thumbnail/620x498/9f2acf79cc3c0be7fdd6d3ef2b4c8375/mastodonteeth02.jpg?v=564e83c5974b3893ba1bcac5fe5947af#" alt="A complete mastodon jaw unearthed in a New York backyard." width="620">A complete mastodon jaw, the first such find in New York in over a decade, has been unearthed in a Hudson Valley backyard! A homeowner initially discovered teeth, leading to a larger excavation by the New York State Museum and SUNY Orange.
The Discovery
The excavation revealed not only the remarkably well-preserved adult jaw, but also fragments of rib and toe bones. This incredible find offers invaluable insights into the lives of these Ice Age giants, which roamed the Earth some 10,000 years ago.
<img src="https://assets3.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/12/18/de481ffd-db65-48e1-bc27-e11f3b689a82/thumbnail/620x410/1a09020198041169618628627065c2ce/mastodonteeth01.jpg?v=564e83c5974b3893ba1bcac5fe5947af#" alt="Mastodon rib and toe bone fragments discovered alongside the jaw." width="620">The homeowner, who initially noticed the teeth, expressed excitement about contributing to scientific understanding. The fossils will undergo carbon dating and analysis to determine the mastodon's age, diet, and habitat before being put on public display in 2025.
Significance
While mastodon remains have been found in New York before (over 150 documented fossils), this discovery is especially significant due to its completeness and the potential for new scientific discoveries. Experts highlight the value of such fossils in understanding both ancient ecosystems and the present world.
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