Mammoth fossil found in Acadiana reveals Louisiana Ice Age past
What began as an unexpected find on private property in the Acadiana region has become a major scientific discovery, giving researchers a rare chance to learn more about the giant animals that roamed Louisiana thousands of years ago. Local landowner Curt Matte recently uncovered fossilized remains believed to belong to a mammoth and contacted paleontologists at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette for help identifying the specimens. The discovery drew the attention of researchers at the university's Science Museum, who say the find could add valuable information to Louisiana's prehistoric record. Among the fossils recovered are portions of a mammoth skeleton, including lower jaw sections, teeth and what researchers believe are tusks. While further study will reveal more about the animal, scientists say the discovery adds an exciting piece to the relatively limited fossil record from southern Louisiana. The find also is a reminder that important scientific discoveries are not always made during formal excavations. In many cases, they begin with observant landowners who recognize the significance of unusual objects uncovered on their property. "We're incredibly grateful to landowners who recognize the importance of these discoveries and reach out to us," Dr. Jennifer Hargrave, director of the UL Lafayette Science
