GIANT GROUND SLOTH VERTEBRA FROM A TAR PIT. ...

Description

GIANT GROUND SLOTH VERTEBRA FROM A TAR PIT
Paramylodon harlani
Pleistocene
Rancho La Brea Formation, California
An unusual occurrence in several locations in southern California during the last Ice Age was the appearance of tar seeps. These natural traps had the surface appearance of benign ponds of cool water, an immediate draw for the thirsty animals that roamed the prehistoric savannahs. However, that life-giving water hid a deadly secret; concealing masses of heavy petroleum, or tar. Large herbivores such as Mastodon, Mammoth, Giant Ground Sloth, Bison, or Horse would come to the edge of the water to drink and, if they were unlucky enough to step into the water, the sticky tar underneath would entrap them, and then slowly pull them down to a certain death in a manner similar to quicksand. Harlan's Ground Sloth is one of the species sometimes found in these locations, and here is a fine example of one of its robust vertebrae; displaying the characteristic black/woody patination of these tar-preserved specimens; a wonderfully warm and evocative appearance. The specimen is likely from the Wilshire-Hauser pit based on its fine preservation; just several city blocks away from the famed La Brea Tar Pits. This unique vertebra measures approximately 8¼ x 6¾ x 6½ inches.

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