A chance encounter led to one of the largest T. rexes ever found. Now, it could be ‘lost to science’
The story of the discovery of the 'Gus' T. rex skeleton is a fascinating one, blending elements of adventure, science, and ethics. It all began with Gary "Gus" Licking, a cattle rancher in South Dakota, who had always suspected his land was hiding something big. The Licking ranch sits within the Hell Creek Formation, a legendary geological boneyard that stretches across Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas, known for its rich fossil deposits, including those of the iconic Tyrannosaurus rex.
In 2021, Thomas Heitkamp, a commercial paleontologist, and his team discovered Gus on Licking's land. This find was significant for several reasons. Firstly, Gus is one of the largest T. rexes ever found, measuring 38 feet in length and 12.5 feet tall, with a skull measuring 54 inches. It includes 183 fossil bone elements, making it about 61% complete by bone count, or 75-80% complete by mass. This level of completeness is crucial for scientific study, as it provides a more comprehensive understanding of the dinosaur's anatomy and behavior.
The auction of Gus has sparked controversy and ethical debates. The sale of fossils, especially those of significant scientific value like T. rexes, raises questions about ownership, stewardship, and the accessibility of scientific knowledge. The majority of T. rex skeletons are already in private hands, and the sale of Gus could further reduce the number of specimens available for public study. This is a critical issue because the scientific community relies on access to these fossils for research and education.
The SVP (Society of Vertebrate Paleontology) and other organizations firmly oppose fossil sales, as they believe that once a fossil is sold, it is often lost to science. Private ownership makes it difficult for other scientists to access the same specimens for further study, which is essential for advancing our understanding of paleontology. The SVP mandates its members to study only specimens held in publicly accessible collections, ensuring that the scientific community can collaborate and build upon each other's findings.
The discovery of Gus also highlights the importance of professional paleontologists and the need for proper excavation and curation. Heitkamp and his team spent years hiking and excavating the site, hand-digging an area of roughly 7,000 square feet to collect all the material. The lab work that followed was equally crucial, involving the isolation, identification, and cleaning of the bones, as well as filling in gaps with sculpted pieces made of epoxy resin. This meticulous process ensures the integrity of the fossil for scientific study.
The sale of Gus is estimated to fetch up to $30 million, but the true value of such a discovery goes beyond monetary considerations. The fossil's scientific significance and the potential for further research make it a valuable asset to the scientific community. However, the current record holder for a fossil auction, Apex the Stegosaurus, sold for $44.6 million, indicating that the price could be much higher.
The ethical debate surrounding the sale of fossils like Gus is complex. While private landowners have the right to sell their discoveries, the scientific community argues that these specimens should be permanently curated in institutions that guarantee access for future researchers and the public. This principle protects not only today's science but also the opportunities for future generations of scientists to explore and understand our planet's history.
In conclusion, the discovery of the 'Gus' T. rex skeleton is a remarkable event that highlights the importance of paleontological research and the ethical considerations surrounding the sale of fossils. The scientific community must continue to advocate for the preservation and accessibility of these precious specimens, ensuring that our understanding of Earth's history remains intact for future generations.
