We cover topics in paleontology to answer common questions about the field to educate and inspire readers of all ages to understand the prehistoric world.
Our series on mass extinctions has explored Earth’s five mass extinctions: the End-Ordovician, the Late Devonian, the End Permian, the End-Triassic, and the End-Cretaceous (K-Pg) extinction. We are at the last mass extinction event. What caused the End-Cretaceous mass extinction? The End-Cretaceous mass extinction was caused by a 6-9 mile … Continue Reading
The End-Triassic mass extinction represents a pivotal moment in Earth’s history. Often overlooked, this event fundamentally reshaped life on our planet by clearing the way for dinosaurs’ rise. It was significant as it would be the last mass extinction until the end of the Mesozoic. So what caused the End-Triassic … Continue Reading
In our series on mass extinctions, we’ve explored two significant events: the End Ordovician and Late Devonian mass extinctions. During these mass extinctions, many species disappeared. However, life showed remarkable resilience, bouncing back relatively quickly. Imagine comparing Earth’s species just before these mass extinctions to those present a few million … Continue Reading
The Devonian period was characterized by fish diversification and the emergence of tetrapods. All this ended abruptly as various factors contributed to a radical die-off of most marine life. The consequences of this mass extinction were far-reaching, altering the evolutionary trajectory of vertebrate life and restructuring marine ecosystems. What could … Continue Reading
When most people think of mass extinction, their first thought is the end of the dinosaurs. You probably ended up here in search of a much older extinction. We’re going to discuss the first mass extinction: the End-Ordovician event. While you’re better off staying to read up on the topic, … Continue Reading
Most of us know that humans and dinosaurs did not coexist. So when did people first know about dinosaurs? 2024 marks 200 years since the first dinosaur was described. That sounds kind of late given how long our species has been around. Why were dinosaurs discovered so late? Dinosaurs were … Continue Reading
The fossilization process is a remarkable phenomenon. It allows us to study the forms of life that inhabited our planet millions, and even billions, of years ago. From the smallest microorganisms to the mightiest dinosaurs, fossils offer an unparalleled glimpse into the past, preserving the intricate details of ancient creatures … Continue Reading
The Congo Basin has always been home to myths and legends. Among these, the most bizarre is the myth of living dinosaurs. You too are probably here in search of the famous Mokele-mbembe. Mokele-mbembe is often described as a modern sauropod dinosaur hidden in the rainforests of Africa. Does Mokele-mbembe … Continue Reading
The Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as Nessie, has intrigued millions worldwide. Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness is purportedly the home of this elusive creature. Is the Loch Ness Monster a dinosaur? Nessie is often thought to be a surviving plesiosaur. However, this is unlikely, as its reported … Continue Reading
You may have gone online to shop for dinosaur fossils. Have you ever wondered why dinosaur teeth, in particular, seem to be so readily available and affordable? Many sites offer teeth from famous dinosaurs such as Carcharodontosaurus or Spinosaurus. Yet, they are often priced lower than the jewelry you’re wearing … Continue Reading