Many older millennials fondly recall dreams of paleontology inspired by the Jurassic Park franchise.
Turning 35 often means letting go of such childhood aspirations. However, for some, it can mean indulging in a unique hobby, such as fossil collecting. Living near Sharktooth Hill in the Sierra Nevada foothills, close to Bakersfield, California, makes this hobby accessible and enjoyable.
The convenience of Smoke Tree Mobile Home Park extends beyond its proximity to Sharktooth Hill. Its proximity to Sequoia National Forest, McMurtrey Aquatic Center, and Beale Park Amphitheater enhances the living experience.
Fossil Hunting at Sharktooth Hill, California
A Fossil Hunter’s Paradise
About 16 million years ago, Central California was a shallow ocean. It teemed with life, hosting giant predators known as megalodons. Ancient turtles, three times the size of modern leatherbacks, also inhabited the waters. Massive sea lion-like creatures called alludes roamed alongside sperm and baleen whales.
Meanwhile, giant sloths, ancient camels, and horses roamed the nearby land. They were joined by mastodons, prehistoric relatives of elephants. A large river, likely the ancient predecessor of today’s 165-mile-long Kern River, coursed through the nearby mountains.
For over 150 years, Sharktooth Hill and Kern County have been treasure troves for paleontologists and fossil hunters.
The Sharktooth Hill Bone Bed reveals a snapshot of nearshore ocean life from the middle Miocene, approximately 16 million years ago. Universally recognized by paleontologists, it’s the world’s richest, most extensive marine bone deposit. The bed boasts about 200 bones per square yard, spanning roughly 50 square miles northeast of Bakersfield.
Debunking the Myth
Since the bed bone’s discovery in the 1850s, experts have argued over how the bones got there. Some paleontologists suggested it could be from massive extinction caused by a widespread catastrophe such as volcanic eruption.
In contrast, others said that the high concentration of bones could mean it was a killing ground for giant prehistoric sharks that fed on seals and other marine animals.
However, scientists did not find volcanic ash, so they ruled out a one-time catastrophic event that led to a massive die-off. They also examined more than 3,000 fossil bones and found that only five had shark bites, so they excluded the idea of Sharktooth Hill being a prehistoric killing ground.
Most paleontologists nowadays believe that the high concentration of fossils was caused by water currents, which created this big pile of bones.
Encouraging Future Paleontologists
The local museum frequently organizes “fossil digging” events to fund its operation and educational programs. They even offer a special rate for families, perhaps to encourage young children to become paleontologists or scientists.
But the coolest thing about their events is that they allow the attendees to keep all the teeth and fossils, except those considered rare and those with articulated frames.
The actual Sharktooth Hill is a National Natural Landmark, so you can’t dig there unsupervised or without permission. However, a local family (Ernst) owns a large portion of the property near this famous bed bone, and they allow visitors to search for fossils for a fee.
Sharktooth Hill, California: Unearthing Prehistoric Wonders
Unearthing the past becomes an exhilarating pursuit when venturing to Sharktooth Hill, California. The old dreams of paleontology can come alive for anyone, transforming into a thrilling hobby of fossil hunting.
The proximity of landmarks like Smoke Tree Mobile Home Park allows for an easy launchpad to this prehistoric playground. Whether you aim to gather tiny teeth scattered on the surface or undertake a more extensive dig, the journey proves a captivating peek into a world from 16 million years ago.
Dive into this unique adventure, connect with the past, and perhaps inspire a new generation of scientists along the way.
Don’t just read about this fossil hunter’s paradise – experience it firsthand! Sharktooth Hill awaits your curiosity and sense of adventure. Pack your bag, bring your excitement, and join us on this journey back in time. Who knows? You might be the next one to unearth a hidden treasure from the past. Send us a message here.
Located in sunny Bakersfield, California, Smoke Tree Mobile Estates is an all-age mobile home park that offers easy access to outdoor activities, parks, and community events. Enjoy our well-maintained amenities, including a pool, spa, and more.
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