13-Year-Old’s Remarkable Find
In 2011, a young fossil enthusiast stumbled upon the complete skull of an unknown 5-million-year-old walrus species in a boulder in northern California. Fast forward eleven years, and that discovery has now been recognized with the naming of the extinct species after the teenager.
Uncovering a Unique Species
The toothless walrus, believed to have inhabited temperate bays in California millions of years ago, was identified thanks to the keen eye of 13-year-old Forrest Sheperd. His passion for fossil hunting led to this groundbreaking find, now officially named Valenictus sheperdi in his honor.
An Important Contribution to Science
The naming of this ancient species not only celebrates Sheperd’s remarkable discovery but also sheds light on the diverse wildlife that once roamed California’s coast. The study of these fossils offers valuable insights into the region’s evolutionary history and the changes it has undergone over millions of years.
Understanding California’s Prehistoric Ecosystem
Millions of years ago, California was home to a variety of unique species, including a diverse array of walruses. The discovery of Valenictus sheperdi provides clues about the past climate and geography of the region, offering a glimpse into a world teeming with strange and fascinating creatures.
