Paleontology
Paleontology, the study of past life, is the
primary emphasis of the Natural History Section of
the Arizona Museum of Natural History. The Natural
History Section explores, excavates, records,
prepares, conserves, and researches the fossil
resources in the collection at AzMNH. In addition to
working with state, university, and municipal
agencies, AzMNH is an official repository for
specimens collected from State, Bureau of Land
Management (BLM), National Forest, and Fish and
Wildlife lands throughout Arizona.
Exploration of Cretaceous rocks in southeastern
Arizona.
Research
Paleontological research began at the museum
(then called Mesa Southwest Museum) in the
mid-1990s, and our collections have been growing
ever since. Since our inception we have steadily
increased collaboration and professional
associations with other research institutions around
the world. Currently AzMNH paleontologists are
involved in ongoing projects in Arizona and Sonora.
Please click on the right menu to explore the
individual project web pages to learn more about
AzMNH paleontological projects.
 
(Left) Excavation of
mammoth tusk and associated fossils in Gilbert, AZ.
(Right) Skull of Zuniceratops.
Publications
AzMNH is both a public museum and a research
institution. AzMNH scientists actively study
specimens and present our research in press and at
international, national and regional scientific
meetings. AzMNH and the affiliated Southwest
Paleontological Society (SPS, see link below) have
hosted several paleontology conferences, and
produced the resulting research volumes. These are
available for a nominal fee. Click the right menu to
view museum publications and their contents.
Southwest Paleontological Society
The Southwest Paleontological Society (SPS) is a
non-profit society devoted to promoting the science
of paleontology. SPS was formed for the purpose of
assisting the Arizona Museum of Natural History with
collecting, documenting and preserving fossil
material. Under the auspices of the Arizona Museum
of Natural History, SPS strives to maintain the
highest standards of conduct and proficiency in all
its activities. It provides educational programs to
its members as well as the community.
Annual Dues: $10.00 (Family membership available)
Further information can be found at
http://www.swpaleosociety.com/ or click on
Southwest Paleontological Society on the right menu.
Volunteers in the AZMNH Paleontology Laboratory.
Tools for removing a fossil
from the field.
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