Explore Alabama’s Prehistoric Marine World at Fossil Fest

The Alabama Museum of Natural History, on the University of Alabama campus and located in Smith Hall, is hosting Alabama Fossil Fest, where you can step back in time to prehistoric eras. The free event is on Saturday, September 12, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

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The Alabama Fossil Fest will showcase fossil sharks and other marine life and will feature educational activities. Another highlight of the fest is the opportunity to chat with professional and amateur paleontologists.

“Prepare for a fin-tastic afternoon dedicated to paleo enthusiasts of all ages, featuring exciting new hands-on programming, updated exhibits and brand-new installations,” said Kristin Harrell, the museum’s education outreach coordinator. “We can’t wait to see you.”

Visitors can get up close with fossils from Alabama and other regions, enjoy family-friendly activities, enter door prize drawings, and take home a fossil shark tooth while supplies last.

The event will include a public presentation on identifying fossil shark teeth, followed by a short question-and-answer session,” said the press release. “Presenter Chase Egli, a geologist and paleontologist with a master’s degree in geology from UA, studies fossil sharks and related fishes, including their teeth, classification, and evolutionary history.”

During the fest, guests can dive deeper into Alabama’s prehistoric marine history with special displays and opportunities to hear from experts. The museum’s permanent exhibits also feature fossils of mosasaurs, crocodilians, dinosaurs, and other ancient creatures.

“Sharks have existed on Earth for over 450 million years and were top predators in our oceans long before marine reptiles or mammals evolved,” said Dr. John Friel, director of the Alabama Museum of Natural History. “This year’s event is a fantastic opportunity for the public to discover something new about the incredible diversity of fossil sharks known from across our state.”

For more information, including directions for free parking, visit the Alabama Museum of Natural History website.