Dr. Kraig Derstler beginning the reconstruction process
Locality: Judith River Formation, Fergus Co., Montana
Description: Basilemys is the largest land turtle of the Cretaceous period in North America. Given its size, it’s surprisingly poorly known as a complete animal. This specimen is exciting because the shell being totally disarticulated before burial gives us the opportunity to restore the high domed shell in 3 dimensions for the first time ever. It is also significant because it preserves several non-shell elements, adding to our knowledge of this specimen and the shell itself shows evidence of fungal infections during life, just like modern tortoises. Fossil is 78 million years old.
Comments: Original material is prepared. Reference specimen is currently under preparation in anticipation of restoration.
Availability: 4-6 months from date of acquisition
Price: $65,000 mounted and restored
Galopagos turtle for comparison
The beginning of reconstruction for the carapace
