Dinosaur fossil discovered under Denver Museum

A drilling project at the Denver Museum unexpectedly uncovers a rare dinosaur fossil.

Fossil Discovery Highlights Colorado's Paleontological Richness

During a routine drilling project for geothermal energy, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science unearthed a rare vertebra from a 67-million-year-old dinosaur. The drilling was aimed at assessing the feasibility of transitioning to cleaner energy but serendipitously bore fossil evidence from the late Cretaceous Period. Museum curator Dr. James Hagadorn described the occurrence as an extremely lucky coincidence, specifically noting its minuscule chance of happening. Fossil remains such as these suggest that species like the Thesculosaurus or Edmontasaurus may have roamed what is now Denver. Despite the exciting discovery, excavating further is hindered by parking requirements, as the fossil lies beneath the museum's parking lot.

This accidental find underscores the hidden potential of urban areas like Denver for paleontological surprises. It raises intriguing questions about the scope of dinosaur habitation in regions previously thought devoid of such evidence. The instance could inspire further exploratory drilling, potentially revealing more about the prehistoric landscape of Colorado. As cities grow and infrastructure projects continue, scientists must balance progress with the preservation of archaeological sites. This discovery serves as a timely reminder of the layers of history that lie beneath our feet, often unnoticed in the hustle of modern urban life.

Highlights

The Denver Museum will continue to explore its rich geological history while navigating urban development.