Russian scientists have unveiled the remains of a young mammoth, perfectly preserved in Siberia's permafrost.
Found in the Jana River Valley during the summer of 2024, the specimen, named "Jana," is believed to be one of the best-preserved mammoths ever discovered.
The mammoth's remains date back approximately 50,000 years, making it a rare and invaluable find for paleontologists.
Experts estimate that Jana was around one year old at the time of its death. Further studies are planned to confirm its age and uncover more details about its life.
A Unique Presentation
The official unveiling of Jana took place on December 23 at the M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University in Yakutsk.
Anatoly Nikolayev, the university's rector, expressed astonishment at the specimen's exceptional state of preservation. "We were all amazed by its condition," he said according to WP.
Fellow researcher Maksim Cheprasov described the discovery as "truly unique."
Weighing 180 kilograms and measuring 120 centimeters in height and 200 centimeters in length, Jana adds to a short list of fully intact mammoth specimens.
Only seven such finds exist worldwide, with five discovered in Russia and one in Canada.
Insights from Permafrost
Permafrost, the deeply frozen layer of Earth, acts as a natural time capsule. It preserves ancient remains of animals and plants while offering a glimpse into past climates.
Russia holds the largest permafrost zones globally, particularly across Siberia. These regions are not only critical for climate studies but also host some of the most significant paleontological discoveries.
The Batagaika crater, often referred to as the "gateway to hell," has yielded previous finds, including a 44,000-year-old wolf and a 32,000-year-old saber-toothed tiger.
Researchers hope this unique specimen will provide deeper insights into the life and environment of the Ice Age.
