Discovery of Rare 103-Million-Year-Old Dinosaur Fossil at UO Dig Site in Central Oregon

In a thrilling discovery, a 103-million-year-old dinosaur fossil was recently unearthed at a UO dig site nestled in central Oregon’s rugged terrain.

The remarkable find, a fully intact vertebra, was stumbled upon by a first-time fossil enthusiast while exploring the dig site.

Located near Mitchell, the University of Oregon-sponsored excavation, led by the experienced fossil dig foreman Greg Carr, has yielded what experts believe to be one of only two dinosaur fossil specimens ever found in Oregon.

Perched on Bureau of Land Management territory, approximately four miles northwest of Mitchell, the site has become a focal point for paleontological exploration.

This latest discovery adds to the rich tapestry of finds in the region, following in the footsteps of Dr. Gregory Retallack’s groundbreaking discovery of Oregon’s inaugural confirmed dinosaur fossil back in 2015. Since then, the area has seen a surge in fossil finds, largely thanks to the efforts of amateur paleontologists affiliated with the North America Research Group.

According to Carr, the ornithopod vertebra was uncovered by a novice fossil hunter who had never embarked on such an adventure before.

“Engaging her in some light digging, she unearthed this extraordinary bone,” Carr recounted. “It was truly a moment of jubilation for all involved.”

While the collection of common invertebrate fossils is permitted on BLM land, the gathering of vertebrate fossils, such as the dinosaur bone in question, is strictly prohibited.

Should anyone stumble upon a vertebrate fossil, Carr emphasized the importance of promptly notifying the UO paleontology department.

Anticipation is building as the University of Oregon prepares to unveil further details about this remarkable discovery in the weeks ahead.