Science Pub - The La Brea Tar Pits: Ice Age Ecosystems Trapped in Asphalt
Alexis Mychajliw

Assistant Professor, Biology & Environmental Studies, Middlebury College and Research Associate,
La Brea Tar Pits / Natural History Museum of Los Angeles

The La Brea Tar Pits of Los Angeles, a world-famous fossil site, is one of our best records of the Pleistocene or the "last ice age." Formed when naturally occurring asphalt seeped into tissues and protected them from water damage, it resulted in time capsules of entire ecosystems, from plants, insects and birds to charismatic megafauna including dire wolves, saber-toothed cats, mammoths and ground sloths. Dr. Mychajliw will share stories of her research at this unique site and discuss how looking through the lens of the fossil record can yield surprising insights into a future of climate change.

Free event, except for food or drinks you order
Sponsored by the Friends of the Castleton Free Library

Event Info

Dec 1, 2024, 3 to 4 PM

Dec 3, 2024, 6:30 PM

Dec 5, 2024, 12 to 3 PM