KU News Release

Media advisory: Fossil event preview at the KU Natural History Museum

WHAT: A first look at Kansas fossils, including the fossilized remains of ancient giant swimming reptiles, bears, big cats, plants and invertebrate life. Many of the fossils were found in Kansas, and some are from local waterways such as the Kansas River.

WHEN: 2:30 p.m. today

WHERE: The KU Natural History Museum, 1345 Jayhawk Blvd. Enter through the north doors and proceed to the public education classroom.

WHO: Larry Martin, professor and curator of vertebrate paleontology; David Burnham, preparator; Paul Selden, distinguished professor of geology; Jill Krebbs, invertebrate collections manager; Elizabeth Hermsen, paleobotany post-doctoral associate.

BACKGROUND: Fossils previewed today will be a part of “What on Earth? Rocks, Fossils and Meteorites,” held at the museum Oct. 21. Amateur rock hounds, fossil hunters and meteorite enthusiasts are invited to bring their own finds to the museum to be identified by experts at the event. While visitors are there, they will have the chance to see examples of Kansas “sea monster” fossils, learn about Kansas geology and learn how to identify a meteorite.

-30-

The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.