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Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Kemmerer fossil discovery
2. 52 million-year-old salamander fossil
Dean Sherman immediately rushed to the site after receiving photos of a new salamander fossil found near Kemmerer, Wyoming. identified as a Paleoamphiuma, this rare amphibian lived around 52 million years ago and is only the third of its kind ever discovered. The specimen shows signs of soft tissue preservation, a unique feature for this species. Excitingly, the fossil will remain in Wyoming, adding to the state’s collection of valuable ancient treasures. While it may take years for the salamander to be prepared for public display, its significance in the scientific community is undeniable. Wyoming’s fossiliferous future holds many more secrets waiting to be unearthed.
1. Ancient Salamander Discovery Kemmerer
2. Paleontology Enthusiasts Kemmerer Wyoming
When Dean Sherman received the photographs of a new specimen discovered in one of the renowned fossil quarries near Kemmerer, Wyoming, he was filled with excitement. Without wasting a moment, he hurried to the site to witness the incredible find in person.
“As soon as I saw the picture, I knew it had to be a salamander,” Sherman shared with Cowboy State Daily. With years of experience in unearthing fossils from the Green River Formation, he was no stranger to remarkable discoveries. However, the foot-long salamander captured in that photo marked a significant milestone for him both personally and professionally.
The owner of In Stone Fossils, Sherman explained, “In over 20 years of digging, I have never come across anything quite like this. It truly is a one-of-a-kind piece.”
### Uncovering a Rare Specimen
While the Green River Formation is known for its abundance of fossils, the discovery of amphibian remains is exceptionally rare, according to the National Park Service. Dave Dilworth, an employee at In Stone Fossils, stumbled upon the fossil while excavating a new layer in an existing quarry that had already yielded several extraordinary finds.
Sherman identified the specimen as a Paleoamphiuma, an omnivorous salamander that roamed the Earth around 52 million years ago. This particular fossil is only the third of its kind ever to be unearthed, making it a truly unique and valuable discovery.
“We have managed to identify the skull, at least two front appendages, and the rear appendages, although they are currently lying on top of each other on one side of the specimen,” Sherman explained. “The only missing part is a small portion of the tail.”
### A Homecoming for the Salamander
Apart from its scientific significance, the future of this rare Wyoming fossil is equally compelling. The quarry where the salamander was found is located on land leased by In Stone Fossils from the state of Wyoming, ensuring that the fossil will remain in the state’s possession.
“When a rare fossil is discovered in a state quarry, it becomes the property of the state of Wyoming,” Sherman emphasized. “Once prepared, it may be displayed at the Wyoming State Museum or another institution, but it ultimately belongs to the people of Wyoming.”
Fossils from the Wyoming deposits of the Green River Formation are highly sought after by museums worldwide. While the newly discovered salamander may travel temporarily for research and display purposes, it will always find its way back home to Wyoming.
### The Path Ahead
The excavation of the salamander was completed on the same day it was found, and it is currently in the custody of In Stone Fossils. However, before the public can marvel at this rare specimen, there are numerous hours and years of preparation ahead.
Sherman revealed, “The fossil is currently in limbo and will soon be handed over to the state of Wyoming for preparation. This meticulous process can take hundreds of hours as the delicate bones must be carefully extracted from the surrounding rock.”
While Sherman has previously undertaken preparatory work for the state of Wyoming, he may not bid on the salamander project due to existing commitments, such as the preparation of a colossal and exceptionally preserved crocodile.
### A Bright Future for Fossil Discoveries
The unearthing of the salamander hints at a promising future for fossil discoveries in the Kemmerer quarry. As new layers are explored, more hidden treasures from 52 million years ago are expected to emerge.
“We recently found a bulb-like plant attached to a flower, a rare discovery that will be instrumental in the studies of a paleobotanist from the Field Museum,” Sherman shared. “All the fossils we uncover within the state lease will belong to Wyoming, ensuring the preservation of our prehistoric heritage.”
Despite the thrill of new discoveries, it will be challenging to surpass the significance of the soft-tissue salamander. As Sherman expressed, “We are honoured to have this fossil in public retention in Wyoming, allowing future generations of scientists to study its unique features.”
For more information or inquiries, contact Andrew Rossi at arossi@cowboystatedaily.com.
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