Paleontology in South Dakota

Mammoth Kill Site, near Brookings

In August 2001, three fishermen canoeing along the banks of the Big Sioux River spotted what they thought looked like animal remains in the side of a cliff. Later investigation revealed evidence of an 11,000-year-old mammoth kill site. Archaeologists uncovered the skull, jawbone, ribs and other bones of a mammoth and some bison along with stone tools.

The public is encouraged to visit the site and learn how a paleontological dig is conducted. Visitors can study fossils and talk to paleontologists. Call (605) 394-1936, e-mail mike.fosha@state.sd.us or visit www.sdsmt.edu/wwwsarc

Big Pig Dig, Badlands National Park

In June 1993, two visitors at Badlands National Park made an incredible discovery - a fossil bed more than 32 million years old. The site is thought to represent a prehistoric watering hole where thirsty animals became stuck. Paleontologists have uncovered 12 types of animals, including a cow-sized rhinoceros, a pig-like animal, a small, three-toed horse, a type of tortoise and rabbit-ancestor.

Site excavation continues this summer through mid-August. The public is invited to observe paleontologists in action. Visitors can also view fossils of the ancient creatures on the Fossil Exhibit Trail. Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Park entrance fee required. For dig dates, call Rachel Benton, Badlands National Park, at (605) 433-5261 or e-mail at rachel_benton @nps.gov or visit nps.gov/badl

Marine Fossil Dig, near Chamberlain

Paleontologists are working to discover how the sea that once covered mid-America changed at the end of the Mesozoic Era.

Excavations continue the first two weeks in August near Chamberlain at a marine fossil site. Volunteers are welcome to help scientists dig for giant reptiles such as 36 foot long mosasaurs and plesiosaurs that swam the oceans, as well as fish, flying reptiles, birds, turtles, sharks, ammonites and other invertebrates. The dig can also be taken for college credit.

Fee charged. Call (605) 394-2467, e-mail James.Martin@sdsmt.edu or visit www.sdsmt.edu

The Mammoth Site, Hot Springs

The simple act of getting a drink of water led to the deaths of hundreds of animals 26,000 years ago at the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs. After they entered the spring-fed sinkhole to drink and bathe, the mammoths were unable to climb back up the slippery banks and became trapped, ultimately starving to death. Since 1974, 53 Columbian mammoths and three woolly mammoths have been unearthed, making this the first site both species have been found together. Other fossils discovered include camel, llama, giant short-faced bear, wolf, coyote and prairie dog.

Visitors may tour the working dig and Ice Age exhibit in Hot Springs year-round. The Earthwatch Institute sponsors an excavation at The Mammoth Site each year. Contact Earthwatch at 1-800-776-0188 for more information. The Mammoth Site also offers the Junior Paleontologist Program seven days a week through Aug. 15. Participants dig for replicas of actual bones found at the site. Merit badges in geology for Boy and Girl Scouts are offered.

Admission charged. Call The Mammoth Site at (605) 745-6017 or visit MammothSite.com.