A massive fossil skull has been unearthed on the Jurassic Coast, igniting excitement in the paleontological community. Discovered at Kimmeridge Bay, this remarkable find belongs to a pliosaur, an ancient marine predator that once dominated the oceans. The exceptional preservation of the skull provides invaluable insights into these long-extinct creatures.
- Fossil skull discovered at Kimmeridge Bay
- Excavation led by Steve Etches and Chris Moore
- Pliosaur had a bite stronger than T. rex
- Unique features suggest a new species
- Documentary narrated by David Attenborough
- Skull now housed at The Etches Collection
Found by fossil enthusiasts Steve Etches and Phil Jacobs during a routine beach walk, the skull was embedded 12 meters up the cliffs, making its extraction a daunting task. With the help of fossil expert Chris Moore, Etches meticulously recovered the specimen, revealing one of the most complete pliosaur skulls ever found. This discovery has quickly captured the attention of scientists worldwide, especially given its unique features.
This pliosaur stands out not only for its powerful bite, believed to surpass that of the T. rex, but also for its unique anatomical features. Could this be an undiscovered species? The skull’s cranial crest and extended jawline suggest significant evolutionary traits. Key points include:
- Exceptional preservation offers rare insights into pliosaur biology.
- Potentially new species indicated by unique skull features.
- Powerful bite force positions it as an apex predator.
- Documentary coverage enhances public interest in paleontology.
As scientists continue to study this extraordinary specimen, it could reshape our understanding of marine reptiles from the Jurassic period. What other secrets might the past still hold?
