Young Paleontologists: Discover Uncharted Worlds
Young explorers and dinosaur enthusiasts, get ready to journey through time at Thanksgiving Point’s Uncharted Worlds exhibit at Ashton Gardens. Discover prehistoric creatures and expand your knowledge with up-close encounters. This guide highlights some of the most fascinating prehistoric giants you’ll meet.
Gold Jewel Beetle (Buprestis Aurulenta):
These beetles live across the Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, and Northern Mexico. They survive by creating tunnels within coniferous trees that are usually dead or dying. The most fascinating part is that these beetles can take up to 30 years to fully grow into an adult beetle.
Sperm Whale (Physeter Macrocephalus):
Discovered in 1758 in the Mediterranean Sea, the Sperm Whale is a true giant of the seas that can grow to be 49 to 59 feet. This massive air-breathing mammal is known for its ability to dive deep and stay underwater for up to an hour to hunt its prey, including squid, sharks, and various fish.
Pterodactyl (Pterodactylus Antiquus):
Discovered in 1784 in Bavaria, the Pterodactyl is unique as the only flying creature among its Longneck peers. This prehistoric flyer diet consists of insects and fish, using its large beak to catch its prey.
Triceratops (Triceratops Horridus):
Discovered in 1889 in Montana, the Triceratops has become a symbol of prehistoric life. Although it was an herbivore, it was anything but helpless. Equipped with powerful horns, the Triceratops could defend itself against predators and rivals with ease.
Giant Sloth (Megatherium):
Discovered in 1787 in Argentina, the Giant Sloth was a colossal creature comparable in size to an Asian elephant. Its diet mainly consisted of tree leaves and shrubs, with the ability to stand on its hind legs to access higher branches.
Learn more about these fascinating giants and many more at Uncharted World running from May 25th to August 24th at Ashton Gardens. For additional prehistoric adventures, head over to the Mountain America Museum of Ancient Life, where the secrets of the prehistoric world continue to be discovered.