Vernal Scientists Unearth Ice Age Treasure: Perfectly Preserved Red Fox Skeleton
VERNAL, Utah — Known for its dinosaur discoveries, Vernal has recently captured the scientific community’s attention with a remarkable find: a perfectly preserved Ice Age red fox skeleton. Named "Roxy," this specimen was discovered undisturbed in a cave in the Uintah Mountains and is one of the most significant Ice Age mammal discoveries in the region.
Researchers at the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum were thrilled to learn the bones, previously known but not adequately dated, were around 26,000 years old. John Foster, curator of collections, expressed his excitement, likening the discovery of Roxy’s skeleton to a rare gem, “more fun than a dinosaur.”
The meticulous recovery process involved hours of hiking and navigating the cave to extract Roxy without damaging her bones. Foster noted the challenges were immense, but the reward was worth it.
Now, after acclimating and preserving the skeleton, researchers will conduct carbon dating and DNA analysis to uncover insights into Roxy’s diet and potential fur color. Once the studies are complete, Roxy will be displayed at the museum, allowing the public to appreciate this exceptional Ice Age relic.
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