Alaska’s Largest Dinosaur Track Site Unearthed in Denali National Park
Researchers have made an extraordinary discovery in Denali National Park, Alaska, unearthing what they are calling a “dinosaur coliseum.” This remarkable site is now considered the largest dinosaur track site in the state.
The coliseum boasts an astounding number of species’ footprints, perfectly preserved and stacked upon each other in layers. These footprints are a combination of hardened impressions left by heavy dinosaurs in ancient mud, as well as casts created by sediment that fell into those impressions. The diversity and intricate detail of these footprints allow researchers to observe the shape of the toes and even the texture of the skin.
Interestingly, the cliffs that make up the coliseum initially did not seem worth the hike. However, a fortuitous change in lighting revealed the incredible significance of the find. These footprints, preserved on the cliff face, are a result of shifting tectonic plates that created the Alaska Range.
The site is believed to have been a bustling hot spot for dinosaur activity for thousands of years, attracting various species to the area. The footprints suggest the presence of large herbivorous dinosaurs as well as carnivores like raptors and tyrannosaurs.
Preserving this extraordinary site is crucial, and researchers plan to collaborate with the National Park Service to ensure its protection. However, it is no easy task, as they must strike a balance between safeguarding the site from disturbance and theft while still allowing visitors to explore the fossils in their geologic context.
The study documenting this exceptional find has been published in the esteemed journal Historical Biology. As the research continues, scientists hope to unravel even more secrets hidden within Denali National Park and shed light on the ancient history of dinosaurs in Alaska.
Guam News Factor will keep you updated on this groundbreaking discovery as researchers delve deeper into Alaska’s prehistoric past.
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