7 sources·Science

Discovery of Mastodon Jaw in Scotchtown, NY, Sparks Excitement Among Scholars

A Gardener in New York discovers a well-preserved mastodon jaw, prompting excavation and future public display.

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Updated: Dec 18th, 2024, 7:33 PM ET

Summary

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A homeowner in Scotchtown, NY, found a complete mastodon jaw while gardening, leading to an excavation by the NY State Museum and SUNY Orange. Along with the jaw, additional bone fragments were uncovered. This significant find, marking the first complete mastodon jaw in 11 years, offers insights into the ecology of the species and will undergo analysis to determine its age and habitat. The fossils will be displayed to the public in 2025, highlighting New York's rich paleontological history, particularly in Orange County, where around one-third of over 150 noted mastodon fossils have been found.

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