What treasures are found in the Harvard University paleontology collections? Meet Harvard paleontologists to find out! See their favorite fossils, learn about their research, and ask them your questions. Join us to celebrate Fossil Day with short talks and table-top presentations for all ages.
All ages are welcome; talks recommended for ages 10 and up.
Regular museum admission rates apply. Free event parking at the 52 Oxford Street Garage.
Presented in collaboration with the Stephanie Pierce Lab of Vertebrate Paleontology and the Javier Ortega-Hernández Lab of Invertebrate Paleontology.
1:30–2:00
Understanding Hallucigenia
Professor Javier Ortega-Hernández, PhD, Ortega–Hernández Lab, Curator in Invertebrate Paleontology
With its long thin body, large spikes, and many clawed legs, Hallucigenia has intrigued and mystified paleontologists for over a century. What and how did it eat? Where did it fit in the Cambrian ecosystem? What evidence do we have to answer these questions? Learn how taking a second look at some old fossils has helped us understand how this oddball animal survived in the ancient ocean long before the dinosaurs.
2:15–2:45
Birds: Living, Flying Dinosaurs
Talia Lowi-Merri, PhD, Scott Edwards Lab
You may have heard that birds descended from feathered dinosaurs, but how did flight evolve? Which fossil animals show hints of this transition, and how did birds become so diverse and abundant today? We can look closely at the bones of living birds, which are similar to those of fossils, to begin finding clues. Come learn all about our feathered friends—both living and extinct—as we journey through time from T. rex to turkeys.
3:00–3:30
Fossil Hunting in Your Own Backyard
RJ Knecht, PhD, Naomi Pierce Lab
Think you need to travel far to find fossils? Think again! Discover the ancient treasures hiding right here in New England. Learn where to look, what tools you'll need, proper collecting techniques, and what to do with your finds—from identification to preservation. Whether you're a curious beginner or want to start your own collection, this talk will get you ready to uncover the prehistoric past beneath your feet.
LOCATION:Harvard Museum of Natural History STATUS:CONFIRMED DTSTART:20251206T180000Z DTEND:20251206T210000Z END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR