The Discovery
Paleontologists with the Utah Geological Survey have launched an excavation near Moab, Utah, located close to Arches National Park. Officially opened in mid-October, the location contains what researchers estimate to be one of North America's oldest bone concentrations from the Cretaceous Period, dating back between 138 million and 141 million years. The site is geologically similar to Doelling's Bowl, an established fossil location situated six miles to the east near the Cedar Mountain Formation. Eastern Utah features exposed Mesozoic rock layers that have preserved a wide range of ancient life, including plants, insects, marine reptiles, and dinosaurs.
What Scientists Found
The primary finding at the site is evidence of a potential new species of armored dinosaur. These plant-eating creatures are characterized by protective body structures such as spikes and bony plates. Utah State Paleontologist Jim Kirkland is currently preparing a formal description of the discovery and plans to name the species after Assistant State Paleontologist Don DeBlieux, his research partner of 25 years. This excavation is expected to be their final joint field season, as DeBlieux is scheduled to retire at the end of 2026. Because an official scientific publication has not yet been released, the find is treated as a possible new species rather than a formally established one. Specific dimensions and physical measurements of the skeleton are not specified in the source; please check the official notice.
Why It Matters
State researchers believe this newly opened dig could hold crucial evidence for understanding a major evolutionary turning point. The site contributes to ongoing work in the Cedar Mountain Formation, which serves as a valuable resource for reconstructing the Early Cretaceous environment, geography, biology, and climate. Previous excavations in the nearby area highlight the region's significance, having uncovered:
- A long-necked sauropod dinosaur skeleton preserved after becoming stuck in mud.
- A deep accumulation of bones from plant-eating iguanodontid dinosaurs.
- A large four-inch tooth attributed to a likely new species of large meat-eating dinosaur.
Source: dinosaur fossil discovery - BingNews · Published October 29, 2026 · Photo by Blond Fox on Unsplash
