Fossils of Giant Sloth and Mastodon Found in Costa Rica, Dating Back at Least 10,000 Years
Costa Rican authorities confirmed the discovery in Cartago of fossils belonging to a giant sloth and a giant mastodon, species of megafauna that inhabited the country between 10,000 and 40,000 years ago, in one of the most significant paleontological discoveries of recent decades.
TL;DR
- Fossils of a giant sloth (Eremotherium) and a giant mastodon (Cuvieronius) have been found in Cartago, Costa Rica.
- The fossils are estimated to be between 10,000 and 40,000 years old.
- The discovery was made after a citizen reported potential fossil remains on private property.
- A total of 49 fossil pieces have been recovered, including a complete tusk measuring 1.60 meters.
- The research involves a team of 12 professionals in geology, archaeology, and biology, with support from the University of Costa Rica.
- Plans are underway to create a permanent exhibition hall for the paleontological collection.