In a stunning archaeological discovery, scientists have unearthed a preserved mastodon skull from a southern Iowa creekbed, the first ever in the state. The ancient remains, believed to be around 13,600 years old, have scientists and historians buzzing.
The 12-day excavation has uncovered what experts are describing as a “goldmine” discovery. The mastodon skull belonging to an extinct ancestor of today’s elephants offers a glimpse into Iowa’s past and the megafauna that once populated the state.
University of Iowa archaeologist Dr. Marshall Bassett, who worked on the excavation, said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime find. It’s not just the first scientifically excavated mastodon in Iowa; it’s also incredibly well-preserved, which is rare for specimens of this age”.
The discovery is especially notable as it coincides with the time people were beginning to enter North America. This has had researchers speculating about possible interactions between early humans and the mastodon in the area.
Iowa State Archaeologist John Doershuk spoke about the find’s significance: “This mastodon likely lived during a time when humans were first entering North America. We’re eager to search for any evidence of human interaction with this individual”.
The excavation in Wayne County, other than the skull, has uncovered more than just the skull. The researchers have found other skeletal remains such as ribs and leg. All this will help scientists understand more about the mastodon and the ecosystem at the time.
The find has attracted interest away from the academic realm as well. An article in “Smithsonian Magazine” penned about the find states: “the creature may have crossed paths with some of North America’s earliest human inhabitants”. This creates an additional level of excitement about the already eye-popping find.
As the research continues, the mastodon skull and other remains will surely shed light on the ancient ecosystem in Iowa, and the coexistence of megafauna and humans in North America. The University of Iowa intends to follow up any studies done on the specimen, including radiocarbon dating and isotope analysis, to reveal more about the diet and environment of the mastodon.
In the event that you want to know more about the extraordinary find, Iowa State Archaeologist John Doershuk will be giving a free presentation on the 13,600-year-old mastodon skull in Moline, offering the public a chance to learn more about the fascinating piece of prehistoric Iowa.
The discovery of this mastodon skull is a reminder of the geological and biological wealth that lies below the earth we walk on, waiting to be uncovered. As researchers continue to study the specimen, we can look forward to gaining new insights into the world that once existed in the heart of America.
