Irvine Ranch Conservancy Field Trip

714-913-5030 • groupbookings@discoverycube.org • Click to Talk (M-F 7:30am - 5pm)

Fossil Safari: Can You Dig It? Yes You Can! Unearth extinct prehistoric mammals in the "wilds" of the Irvine Ranch Land Reserve. Appropriate and safe for 2nd and 3rd grade students, this exciting hands-on, simulated fossil dig containing Saber-toothed cats, Dire wolves, Giant Ground sloths, and more, will teach students about fossils, extinction, and animal design. Activities Include: Discover the world of geology, the ecology of the past and how our world has changed Excavate for fossil replicas and learn the importance of the natural wonders in your own backyard Learning stations and role-play activities introduce students to the different types of fossils and predator-prey relationships Each student takes home a fossil imprint as a keepsake Cost: $11.50 per student Click for a Map & Directions >>

About the Irvine Ranch Wildlands – a National Natural Landmark

On October 10, 2006 more than 37,000 acres of wildlands and parks on The Irvine Ranch were designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Natural Landmark. This designation is given to areas recognized as outstanding examples of natural heritage in the United States. Nationwide, fewer than 600 sites have received this special honor.

The unique and globally important ecosystems, plants and animals in this area were a major reason why the land was designated a National Natural Landmark. Equally distinctive and scientifically valuable are the geology and paleontology of the land.

Approximately 80 million years of the Earth’s complex geologic history are recorded and highly visible in the rocks and soil of The Irvine Ranch. These rocks tell the story of changes in the landscape, climate, sea level and ecosystem from the late Cretaceous (65 million to 80 million years ago) to the late Pleistocene (less than 1 million years ago). In addition, the fossil record of the area is rich with plants and animals from different phases in prehistory. Many of these fossils, like the hadrosaur (a duck-billed dinosaur), represent previously undiscovered species.

The National Natural Landmark designation would not have been possible without the efforts of many dedicated researchers and scientists. Rigorous independent studies were conducted to reveal and record the unique features of the landscape. During this adventure, children have the opportunity to step into the shoes of geologists and paleontologists to excavate the fossil remains of prehistoric creatures. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore the roles of the scientists responsible for amazing discoveries and vital land conservation.