Definitions
What is a fossil?
The remains or shapes of ancient plants and animals that have turned to stone.
Why do we study fossils?
To learn about the plants and animals that no longer exist.
What was Barnum Brown's nickname?
"Mr. Bones"
Why are fossil fuels so important to Alberta?
They can be used to heat homes or provide power for items. Gasoline is used to run cars and other machines.
What is a palaeontologist?
Scientists who study fossils to learn about very old forms of life.
Why is Alberta unique in terms of fossils?
There are so many fossils found here. There are very few other places in the world with as many fossils.
What dinosaur did Joseph Tyrrell discover?
The Albertosaurus.
How are fossil fuels formed?
Some of the plants and animals that were buried long ago were covered under the weight of a rock.
What are fossil fuels?
Plants and animals that turned into coal, oil, and gas instead of a fossil.
Where are most of the fossils in Alberta found?
Most of Alberta's fossils are found in the badlands.
Where is the Royal Tyrrell Museum located?
Drumheller.
Why was Dinosaur Provincial Park created?
It was created to protect the fossils and keep them from being taken away.
What are buffalo stones (iinisskimm)?
Fossils that First Nations peoples considered sacred.
What law was passed in 1978?
Any fossils found in Alberta must be kept here.
Who created Dinosaur Provincial Park?
George Anderson.
Why are there so many fossils in Alberta?
Fossils are found in Alberta because of the way the land formed. There were earthquakes and volcanoes, so plants and animals were covered over and preserved.
What is petrified wood?
A fossil that used to be wood but turned to stone.
What are World Heritage Sites?
Places that are important to the whole world.
What was Joseph Tyrrell actually looking for when he discovered the Albertosaurus?
He was looking for coal.
Why is the Royal Tyrrell Museum so important?
1. Alberta’s fossils can remain in the province.
2. Paleontologists in Alberta now have a place to study their finds.
3. People can see the fossils on display and learn about life in Alberta millions of years ago.