Paleontology CSI: Uncovering the Mysteries of the Ice Age
Join the Las Vegas Science & Natural History Museum's own Dr. Stephen Rowland for a prehistoric investigation! In Paleontology CSI, you'll discover how paleontologists use clues from the fossil record to investigate the past, much like detectives examining evidence at a crime scene.
Travel back to the Pleistocene Epoch and investigate the death of a Columbian mammoth. Did it die of natural causes, or could something else have been responsible? Explore the Las Vegas Valley, examine mammoth teeth, compare these Ice Age giants to their modern relatives, and learn what a single animal's remains can reveal about an entire ancient ecosystem.
You'll also explore one of paleontology's greatest mysteries: What caused North America's Ice Age megafauna to disappear? Through scientific observation, evidence, and hypothesis testing, Dr. Rowland encourages viewers to examine the clues, make educated guesses, and consider possible explanations for events that occurred thousands of years ago. Along the way, you'll get a glimpse into the everyday work of paleontologists as they piece together the prehistoric world.
Watch Paleontology CSI
Ready to investigate the prehistoric past? Follow along with Dr. Rowland as he examines fossil evidence and explores the fascinating history of Ice Age Las Vegas.
For easier viewing, this educational presentation has been split into two videos. Begin with Part One, then continue with Part Two to watch the complete presentation.
Please Note: This video serves as a companion resource to the Paleontology Educator Checkout Kit, designed for middle and high school students. Throughout the presentation, viewers are asked to examine and compare physical mammoth molars included in the kit. While these specimens are not provided with the online videos, viewers can still follow along with Dr. Rowland, observe the comparisons, and explore the evidence presented.
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