Description
RARE Terrapene Turtle Fossil For Sale
- ULTRA RARE Terrapene ornata formerly known as Terrapene longinsulae which is presently invalid. While some may say this is a “Fugly” Turtle, this is an ULTRA RARE offering! If you are a Turtle Collector, Kansas Fossil Collector or a Charles H. Sternberg fan then YOU will appreciate this for what it is!! I defy you to find another one on the open market!!
- Late Miocene to Pliocene
- Ogala Formation
- Prairie Dog Creek in Phillips County Kansas – The same quarry that was discovered and collected by Charles H. Sternberg!
- This specimen measure 8.0″ long x 6.6″ wide as well as 4″ tall. There are a couple of patches of fill present for stability. The missing shell was not restored, leaving this turtle probably 97% Natural as Found.
Charles H. Sternberg’s Fossil Quarries Near Long Island, Phillips County, Kansas
Charles Hazelius Sternberg (1850–1943), the famous American fossil hunter, discovered an important fossil locality near Long Island, Kansas, in 1882.
The site became known by three names:
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Sternberg Quarry
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Long Island Quarry
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Marsh Quarry
These names generally refer to the same historic fossil locality, situated along Prairie Dog Creek on land belonging to James Overton
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- Buy Fossils – MORE Reptile Fossils For Sale
Terrapene Turtle Fossil For Sale – Genuine Prehistoric Box Turtle Fossils
Looking for a Terrapene Turtle Fossil For Sale? Discover genuine prehistoric box turtle fossils from North America. These fascinating reptiles belong to the genus Terrapene, which includes living box turtles and extinct relatives. Their fossil remains provide valuable clues about ancient environments and turtle evolution.
At Prehistoric Fossils, we offer authentic natural history specimens for collectors, educators, and fossil enthusiasts. Since 1997, we have specialized in genuine fossils backed by our authenticity guarantee.
What Is a Terrapene Turtle?
Terrapene is a genus of primarily land-dwelling box turtles native to North America. These reptiles belong to the family Emydidae and have a distinctive hinged lower shell, called the plastron.
Unlike most turtles, many box turtles can close their shells tightly to protect their heads and limbs. Additionally, their rounded upper shells provide protection against predators.
Although modern box turtles remain widespread, prehistoric species also appear in the fossil record.
Terrapene Turtle Fossil For Sale – Prehistoric Species
Scientists have identified several fossil representatives of the genus Terrapene. These include extinct forms and ancient populations related to living species.
For example, Terrapene longinsulae is a historical fossil species name associated with Kansas. However, researchers have also classified it as a synonym of the living ornate box turtle, Terrapene ornata.
Furthermore, these fossils help paleontologists study changes in turtle anatomy, geographic distribution, and prehistoric habitats.
Where Are Prehistoric Box Turtle Fossils Found?
Fossil box turtles occur in sedimentary deposits across parts of North America. Their remains have been recovered from ancient environments that supported rivers, floodplains, grasslands, and wooded habitats.
Depending on the species and locality, these fossils may date to the Miocene, Pliocene, or Pleistocene epochs.
Additionally, their preserved shells provide important evidence about prehistoric climate and environmental conditions.
RARE Terrapene Turtle Fossil For Sale – Identification Features
Collectors can often recognize fossil box turtles by their distinctive shell structures. However, identifying an exact species requires careful examination.
Important features include:
- The shape and thickness of the carapace
- The structure of the hinged plastron
- The arrangement of individual shell bones
- The size and proportions of the specimen
- The geological age and discovery location
Moreover, fossil shells may display natural cracks, mineral staining, and other features resulting from preservation.
Why Collect Genuine Terrapene Fossils?
Prehistoric box turtle fossils make fascinating additions to natural history collections. They also provide educational examples of reptile evolution and adaptation.
Furthermore, their recognizable shells make them excellent display specimens for fossil collectors, museums, and classrooms.
Because fossil preservation varies, each specimen offers its own distinctive appearance and scientific interest.
Buy Genuine Terrapene Turtle Fossils With Confidence
When searching for a Terrapene Turtle Fossil For Sale, authenticity and accurate identification are important.
At Prehistoric Fossils, we take pride in offering genuine specimens for collectors and fossil enthusiasts. Whether you collect prehistoric reptiles or study ancient North American wildlife, box turtle fossils make excellent additions to any collection.
100% Authenticity Guaranteed – Trusted Source Since 1997.
