An international team of scientists has uncovered over a ton of fossils while on expedition in Antarctica, all of which are estimated to be approximately 70 million years old.
The unearthed ancient marine creatures, dinosaurs, and birds thrived during the late Cretaceous Period, the last geologic period before the mass extinction event 65 million years ago.
Included in the massive find were a giant shark vertebrae, marine lizards, and early ducks.
The trove of fossils will be shipped to Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for further study and cataloging, which could take several years.
University of Queensland researcher Dr. Steve Salisbury told the Wall Street Journal, “The diversity and quality of what we found will provide a detailed snapshot of life in Antarctica at the end of the Age of Dinosaurs.”
Research in Antarctica is not for the faint of heart. The 12-person team endured 7 weeks of seasickness, bitter cold, and several miles of daily hiking to reveal the remains.
Dr. Salisbury continued, “Working in Antarctica is really tough. But the hardest thing I think was actually getting there.”
We’re glad they did!
Enjoy these newly released clips from the expedition:
