Ancient Discovery: 13,000-Year-Old Mastodon Skull Found in Iowa

In a remarkable archaeological find, experts in Iowa have uncovered a well-preserved mastodon skull, dating back approximately 13,600 years. This discovery is set to shed light on the interactions between early humans and these prehistoric giants.

The Excavation Journey

The excavation took place earlier this month along a creek bank in Wayne County, a project that spanned nearly two weeks. The site had come to the attention of the Office of the State Archaeologist, Iowa (OSA) back in 2022, when erosion began to expose the ancient remains.

Significance of Radiocarbon Dating

Thanks to radiocarbon dating, researchers have confirmed that the mastodon lived during a time when early humans were also present in the region. This overlapping timeline raises intriguing questions about how these two species may have interacted.

Searching for Evidence of Human Activity

The OSA team is meticulously examining the skull and other remains for signs of human involvement. John Doershuk, director and state archaeologist at OSA, expressed his hopes, stating, “We’re really hoping to find evidence of human interaction with this creature – perhaps the projectile points and knives that were used to kill the animal and do initial butchering. There’s also potential evidence on the bones themselves – there could be identifiable cut marks.”

Mastodons: The Giants of the Ice Age

Mastodons were colossal mammals, closely related to modern elephants, that roamed North America from around 3.5 million years ago until they vanished approximately 10,500 years ago. Their extinction coincides with significant environmental changes and the arrival of human populations.

A Historic First for Iowa

The discovery of this mastodon skull marks a significant milestone for Iowa archaeology, as it is described as the “first-ever well-preserved mastodon (primarily the skull) that has been excavated in Iowa.” This finding not only enriches the state’s prehistoric record but also enhances our understanding of the Ice Age ecosystem.

Future Exhibits and Education

Once the conservation and analysis of the mastodon bones are completed at the University of Iowa, they will be featured in a new exhibit at the Prairie Trails Museum. This exhibit aims to educate the public about the significance of this remarkable find and the ancient world in which these creatures lived.

This extraordinary discovery represents a vital piece of Iowa’s archaeological puzzle, offering insights into the lives of both humans and mastodons during a fascinating era of our planet’s history.