What dinosaur fossils were found at Dinosaur National Monument?

Fossils believed to belong to a Diplodocus, a long-necked dinosaur, were unearthed during a parking lot project.

When was the last time fossils were excavated at Dinosaur National Monument?

The site had not seen fossil excavation efforts since 1924, making this recent find significant.

Where can I see the newly discovered dinosaur fossils?

Some of the unearthed fossils are now on display at the Quarry Exhibit Hall and the Utah Field House museum.

Home / Science / Dinosaur Bones Emerge From Parking Lot After 100 Years

Dinosaur Bones Emerge From Parking Lot After 100 Years

18 Jan

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Summary

Dinosaur fossils, unseen for a century, were discovered during routine parking lot work.
The unearthed remains likely belong to a Diplodocus, a long-necked dinosaur species.
Over 3,000 pounds of fossils were excavated and are now being prepared for display.

Dinosaur Bones Emerge From Parking Lot After 100 Years

A routine parking lot renovation at Dinosaur National Monument has yielded a remarkable paleontological find, with dinosaur fossils unearthed for the first time in more than 100 years. Construction crews discovered the ancient remains in mid-September near the Quarry Exhibit Hall, prompting an immediate halt to work to allow for expert assessment.

The fossils are believed to be from a Diplodocus, a large, long-necked dinosaur whose bones are frequently found in the monument's historic bonebed. Excavation efforts between mid-September and mid-October successfully removed approximately 3,000 pounds of fossils and associated rock. This significant collection is currently being prepared and studied at the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum in Vernal.