Giant Sloth and Mastodon Fossils Found in Costa Rica, Dating Back at Least 10,000 Years
Thirteen excavation and rescue operations have led to the recovery of 49 fossil pieces in total.
TL;DR
- Fossils of a giant sloth (Eremotherium) and a giant mastodon (Cuvieronius) have been discovered in Costa Rica.
- The fossils are estimated to be between 10,000 and 40,000 years old.
- The discovery was made in the province of Cartago following a citizen report.
- Thirteen excavation and rescue operations recovered 49 fossil pieces, including a 1.60-meter tusk.
- This find is considered one of the most significant paleontological discoveries in Costa Rica in recent decades.
- The Ministry of Culture plans to create a permanent exhibition space for the national paleontological collection.
- The research team includes professionals in geology, archaeology, and biology, with support from the University of Costa Rica.
- International advisors, including a paleontologist from the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, have provided input.