Ice Age Mastodon Tooth Unearthed in California Creek

A recent survey of a creek in San Mateo County, California, led to the discovery of a significant Ice Age relic. A tooth belonging to an ancient Pacific mastodon was uncovered, as reported by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen).

Discovery by Accident

Brigid Lynch, a geomorphologist with Balance Hydrologics, discovered the tooth while working on a project aimed at enhancing the habitat for the endangered California red-legged frog. Lynch was conducting a routine survey when she came across what initially seemed like an oddly shaped rock.

“As a geologist, I’ve encountered various finds, but nothing quite like this,” Lynch shared.

The tooth’s condition was remarkably pristine, according to Wayne Thompson, CEO of Pacific Paleontology. He elaborated, saying the tooth likely dates between 50,000 and 100,000 years old due to its discovery location.

Dating and Preservation

Thompson clarified, “Many reports incorrectly suggest the tooth is 10,000 years old. However, it appears much older, potentially between 50,000 and 100,000 years.” The molar’s excellent condition suggests limited movement in the stream post-mortem. This indicates the creature died in the area, and parts of its skeleton might remain buried nearby.

Remarkably, the tooth retained most of its fragile roots, an uncommon occurrence that hints at minimal disturbance in its environment. Thompson expressed optimism that the rest of the mastodon, including its skull, could still be at the site.

Future Research Plans

Researchers from Stanford University’s Doerr School of Sustainability plan to conduct carbon dating to ascertain the tooth’s precise age. A 3-D scan will also be created to produce a replica of the molar.

Mastodons, distinct from mammoths, preferred browsing on leaves in creek and river valleys. Thompson pointed out that alder trees, a favored food source of mastodons, still grow abundantly along the creek where the tooth was discovered.

The find offers a rare glimpse into the region’s prehistoric ecosystem and provides a critical link to understanding the Ice Age giants that once roamed North America.