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© Nova Scotia Museum
The fossil comes from a branch of reptiles described as mammal-like as they are thought to be the ancient ancestors of modern mammal species. |
Aug 16, 2012 | CBC
A family and their dog named Kitty have stumbled upon one of the most significant fossil finds ever in Nova Scotia.
The reptile fossil, affectionately nicknamed "Superstar," is the first of its kind to be found in the province.
While out walking along Nova Scotia's fossil-rich Northumberland shore, Patrick Keating, his family, and their dog, Kitty, found a fossilized rib cage, backbone and partial sail.
When they went back to the same area a week later, they found the creature's fossilized skull.
"We really had no idea how significant this was," said Keating. "My brother Peter and his kids took the pieces to the Nova Scotia Museum and when we learned what they were, we were truly amazed and so glad we brought them in."
Researchers estimate the reptile lived between 290 and 305 million years ago, during the Carboniferous Period or early Permian Period.
Based on fossil evidence, researchers believe Superstar was a juvenile, measuring about one metre long, weighing in at about 15 kilograms.
Paleontologists and other staff from the Museum of Natural History, the Fundy Geological Museum and the Joggins Fossil Institute are working together to unravel the mystery.
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