Mastodon skull found colonized in Iowa soil—now we uncover the truth about human-animal conflict.

Mastodon Skull, Unearthed in Iowa, Points to Violent Human Hunting

Archeologists in Iowa have unearthed an ancient mastodon skull, and other bones, dating back to the time when the first humans roamed the area. This important find, in the southern part of the state, is Iowa's first well-preserved mastodon remains, as reported by the University of Iowa’s Office of the State Archaeologist on Facebook.

https://www.facebook.com/IowaArchaeology/posts/pfbid033Y5QZCCUrXjrNLQy8piQcDWnfFYPDSARMGUGyXVWhvUdGguqhuAtatTTSC4LuruLl

The University of Iowa estimates the bones to be around 13,600 years old, meaning this mastodon coexisted with the first humans in the region. This find provides an exciting glimpse into the past, and the possibility of understanding more about early human life and their interactions with these large mammals.

The Violent Truth:

John Doershuk, Iowa's state archaeologist, was contacted after a resident found an unusually long bone, later identified as a mastodon femur, on private property. This discovery led to further investigations and the uncovering of a broken tusk, likely still connected to the skull. The team's excitement is palpable as they carefully excavate these ancient remains.

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. - John Doershuk, Iowa's state archaeologist

The 12-day excavation also revealed stone tools, dated to a few thousand years after the mastodon's death. Despite the time lapse, the team is encouraged by the first-ever evidence of human activity in the creek drainage. They are optimistic about finding signs of human interaction with the mastodon, and understanding the circumstances that led to its demise in the creek bed.

A String of Important Discoveries:

This discovery adds to a growing list of significant fossil finds across the United States. From mammoth tusks in Mississippi and Florida to a near-complete mammoth skeleton in North Dakota, each find provides valuable insights into the ancient past and our understanding of early human life and their interactions with these majestic creatures.

A glimpse into a violent past, these discoveries remind us of our impact on the natural world and the importance of conservation. The mastodon bones will be on display at the Prairie Trails Museum in Corydon, serving as a powerful reminder of our prehistoric past and our ongoing impact on the planet.