A complete mastodon jaw discovered in a New York homeowner’s backyard will undergo scientific analysis before being displayed to the public in 2025.
A remarkable discovery has been made in Scotchtown, New York, where a homeowner unearthed a complete mastodon jaw in their backyard. This extinct mammal, which bears a resemblance to modern elephants, was excavated along with several bone fragments by researchers from the New York State Museum and SUNY Orange.
The New York State Museum announced that the fossils will undergo carbon dating and extensive scientific analysis to ascertain the mastodon’s age, diet, and habitat. Once the jaw and related findings are preserved and studied, they will be showcased in public programming planned for 2025, allowing visitors to explore New York’s rich Ice Age history.
The discovery came about when the homeowner noticed two unusual teeth hidden among plant fronds. Intrigued, they began digging deeper and uncovered two additional teeth just inches beneath the surface. “When I found the teeth and examined them in my hands, I knew they were something special and decided to call in the experts,” the homeowner stated, as quoted by the museum. “I’m thrilled that our property has yielded such an important find for the scientific community.”
This find is particularly significant, as it marks the first complete mastodon jaw discovered in New York in 11 years, and is being referred to as a “prehistoric treasure.” The excavation efforts led by the New York State Museum and SUNY Orange revealed a full, well-preserved mastodon jaw belonging to an adult individual. In addition to the jaw, researchers recovered a piece of a toe bone and a rib fragment, which provide valuable insights into the mastodon’s life and environment.
According to museum officials, approximately 150 mastodon fossils have been discovered throughout New York, with a third of these finds originating from Orange County, where this jaw was located. Cory Harris, Chair of SUNY Orange’s Behavioral Sciences Department, emphasized the importance of the additional fragments, stating, “While the jaw is the star of the show, the additional toe and rib fragments offer valuable context and the potential for additional research.” He also expressed hope for further exploration of the immediate area in search of more preserved bones.
This discovery not only enriches the scientific understanding of mastodons but also highlights the ongoing potential for significant archaeological finds in New York. As researchers prepare for further analysis, the excitement surrounding this find underscores the importance of community involvement in scientific discovery.
Source: Original article