Looking for Fossils in Underground Caves - Ice Age Deposits in Western North America

Embark on a captivating 50-minute journey through the underground caves of western North America, exploring ice age fossil deposits with Dr. Chris Jass from the Royal Alberta Museum. Discover the significance of cave fossils in providing insights into biological changes during the last ice age, including the preservation of rare specimens and the perspective on life at higher elevations. Learn about research findings from Nevada, Alberta, and South Dakota, revealing mammalian persistence in unfavorable conditions, the timing of life's return to the Rocky Mountains post-glaciation, and significant biogeographic distribution changes. Experience a 20-year tour of ice age cave deposits across Arizona, Nevada, South Dakota, and Alberta, while gaining an understanding of the unique challenges faced during cave fieldwork. This Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology Speaker Series presentation offers a fascinating look into the world of underground palaeontology and its contributions to our understanding of prehistoric life.