Fossil footprints found after floods in Texas

Floodwaters in Northwest Travis County revealed rare early Cretaceous dinosaur footprints, opening new questions for scientists and raising preservation concerns.

Rare 115-Million-Year-Old Dinosaur Footprints Discovered in Texas After Flooding

Following recent flooding in Northwest Travis County, Texas, volunteers uncovered rare dinosaur footprints that had been buried for millions of years. The prints are in the Big Sandy Creek area, and local officials say the site is being protected during flood cleanup to prevent disturbance while researchers document the findings. University of Texas paleontologists led by Matthew Brown confirm the footprints date to the early Cretaceous period and provide a glimpse into once-wide landscapes where large predators and herbivores roamed side by side.

Paleontologists suggest the tracks may include large carnivores similar to Acrocanthosaurus and herbivores linked to Paluxysaurus, indicating a dynamic ecosystem. Researchers plan to map the site and use 3D imaging to capture details for future study, keeping the exact location undisclosed to reduce risk of vandalism or disturbance on private land.

This discovery illustrates how natural events can reveal history buried in stone, turning a flood event into a scientific opportunity. It also highlights the tension between public interest in new fossils and the need to protect sensitive sites, especially when the location is on private property. The collaboration between volunteers, local authorities, and university researchers shows how community efforts can accelerate learning while underscoring the responsibility to preserve fragile records of the past. As 3D imaging and detailed mapping begin, the broader question will be how much access remains appropriate during early study.

Highlights

The past has a voice, and science is listening closely.