Mastodons Stomp Into County Museum

SAN BERNARDINO >> Did you know that three entirely different kinds of huge prehistoric elephants used to make their homes in Southern California? A new exhibit in San Bernardino County Museum’s hall of geology and paleontology will introduce visitors to the largest of the large Ice Age mammals when "Mastodons!" opens on Saturday, June 11. A special preview party for Museum members was slated for Friday, June 10. “Great things are happening at the County Museum,” said James Ramos, Board of Supervisors chairman. “It is a great place to engage in the cultural and natural heritage of our county. I encourage you to bring your family and friends to learn more about the prehistoric elephants that roamed our region millions of years ago and to also enjoy the new displays available in the Geology Gallery.” Mastodons and mammoths entered North America millions of years ago and roamed throughout the continent until the end of the Ice Age, when they became extinct along with other large mammals including camels, giant ground sloths, and saber-toothed cats. Now, a full-size mastodon mother and calf will greet Museum patrons as they enter the geology hall, along with new information about prehistoric elephants in the region. The mastodons help round out the “Life to Death to Discovery” diorama that culminates in a recreated dig to recover mastodon fossils. “Until you’ve stood next to a mastodon, you have no idea just how huge these animals were,” said Melissa Russo, the museum’s director. “Once kids get a chance to get up close and personal with a mastodon, we’re sure they’ll be excited to continue to explore, dream, and discover more about fossils and about our regional natural heritage.” Museum Association members can enjoy an exhibit preview, along with a barbecue picnic and screening of “Ice Age” on the evening of June 10. This family party is also open to people who join the Museum Association before that date as one of the many benefits of museum membership. This includes free museum admission, exhibit previews, discounts, and the knowledge that membership helps support museum programs and operations.