Mastodon Tooth Found in California Creek

Science

Mastodon Tooth Found in California Creek

6 sourcesUpdated Sep 14, 2026

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A geomorphologist surveying a San Mateo County creek for a habitat-restoration project noticed what appeared to be an unusual rock, which was later identified as an exceptionally well-preserved Pacific mastodon molar. The roughly 9-inch tooth includes both its crown and root and was found in a Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District preserve in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Scientists believe it dates to the Ice Age, when mastodons roamed North America, though its precise age has yet to be determined. The fossil has been donated to Stanford University’s Doerr School of Sustainability, which plans to study it and produce a 3D replica for public education.

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Last updatedSep 14, 2026

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Broke standard-democrat.com · Sep 11, 7:12 PM ETLeft +1hCenter +14h6 sources +2d on

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Left· 4 sources

“Researcher discovers mastodon molar along California's coastline”

CBS News · Sep 14, 2026

Center· 1 source

“Well-preserved mastodon tooth found in a creek: ‘It was just sitting there’”

WAND - Decatur News · Sep 12, 2026

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