Archaeologists uncover extraordinary 13,000-year-old mastodon skull in Iowa
In a significant discovery, archaeologists in Iowa have unearthed a remarkably well-preserved mastodon skull that dates back around 13,600 years. This find, located in a creek bank in Wayne, has sparked much excitement and curiosity among experts.
A remarkable discovery
The excavation, which took nearly two weeks to complete earlier this month, was initiated after the site was first reported to the Office of the State Archaeologist in Iowa (OSA) back in 2022. The find is particularly thrilling as it may offer valuable insights into human interaction with these ancient creatures.
Radiocarbon dating places the mastodon remains in a time when humans were known to inhabit the region. This temporal context adds a layer of interest as experts hope to find evidence of humans having hunted or interacted with the mastodon.
The excavation took nearly two weeks to complete. (Office of the State Archaeologist, Iowa)
Looking for human connections
John Doershuk, the director and state archaeologist at OSA, expressed hope that the bones might bear marks indicating human activity.
