A remarkable fossil discovery has captivated researchers and the public alike at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, where a vertebra believed to belong to a dinosaur was unearthed beneath the museum’s parking lot.
This significant finding was made during deep drilling operations for a geothermal energy project, aimed at transitioning from natural gas.
Bob Raynolds, a research associate in the museum’s Earth Sciences Department, described the fossil’s discovery as ‘nothing short of magical’.
The fossil was uncovered at depths reaching 763 feet and is thought to be the oldest dinosaur fossil found within Denver’s city limits, dating back approximately 67.5 million years to the Late Cretaceous period.
This particular vertebra is linked to a plant-eating dinosaur, possibly an ornithopod like Thescelosaurus or Edmontosaurus, which thrived in the lush, swampy environments that characterized the region millions of years ago.
In an announcement, Patrick O’Connor, the museum’s director of Earth and Space Sciences, expressed his astonishment at the exceptional nature of the find, stating, ‘This may be the most unusual dinosaur discovery I have ever been a part of.’
The discovery adds another chapter to the rich paleontological history of the Denver area, contributing vital insights into the prehistoric ecosystem that existed right beneath modern-day Denver.
James Hagadorn, curator of geology at the museum, emphasized that the fossil is both ‘scientifically and historically thrilling’ for the museum and the greater community.
The sedimentary rock that encased the fossil is believed to represent a habitat that functioned similarly to a pond or swamp, shedding light on the environment of the Edmontosaurus, noted as one of the most common herbivores of its time.
Visitors to the museum can see the fossil on display at the ‘Discovering Teen Rex’ exhibit, which showcases the fascinating stories of Earth’s ancient inhabitants.
Urban paleontological discoveries are relatively rare but often fuel public enthusiasm for science and strengthen our connection to the natural world.
The fossil discovery’s significance extends beyond mere academic interest; it serves as a poignant reminder of the scientific riches residing just beneath our feet.
In addition to this recent find, the article from the scientific journal Rocky Mountain Geology outlines other notable discoveries in the Denver area, including a Triceratops skull found in 1982, tracks commemorated by the Triceratops Trail near Golden, and remains uncovered during construction projects at Coors Field.
Previous findings in the region have included the Thornton Torosaurus identified in 2017, T. rex remains found in Littleton and Boulder, and other discoveries that have similarly caught the attention of dinosaur enthusiasts and researchers alike.
Raynolds noted that in his 35 years at the museum, he had never encountered an opportunity as unique as this one to explore the geological layers beneath Denver with such precision.
“This type of discovery opens doors for further research and education,” Raynolds said.
Looking ahead, there are prospects for additional findings beneath the bustling city.
Researchers believe this exceptional dinosaur fossil could bolster educational outreach and deepen the public’s appreciation for the region’s rich prehistoric past.
As the museum continues to draw connections between its exhibits and ongoing research, the fossil serves as a tangible link to a time long before the city was established, revealing the ancient ecosystem that thrived in Denver millions of years ago.
In sum, the discovery of this dinosaur fossil not only enriches scientific understanding but also highlights the unique interplay between urban life and natural history in the heart of Denver.
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