Latest news with #MississippiMuseumofNaturalScience
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Mississippi's dinosaur discoveries reveal its prehistoric past
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The history of dinosaurs in Mississippi may be scattered and isolated, but their presence in the state is nothing short of colossal. In January, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, operated by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP), ended its dinosaur exhibit, which began roughly six months earlier. Though the exhibit featured some of the most recognizable dinosaurs, most were not from Mississippi. The reason relates to the state's geography millions of years ago. Around that time, most of Mississippi was not covered in Magnolia trees; it was buried in water. The Mississippi Embayment left only the northeast corner of the state dry. As a result, the state has an abundance of whale fossils. Scientists ID new prehistoric sea creature: Nearly 40 feet long with 'crushing' teeth Contrary to popular belief, there were no true marine dinosaurs. However, dinosaur carcasses frequently drifted out to the ocean and portions of their remains may be found in marine deposits. A fossil collector from Columbus donated the upper arm bone of a juvenile duck-billed dinosaur known as a hadrosaur to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. The bone had the tips of three shark teeth embedded in it. Dinosaur discoveries were concentrated in the northeast corner of the state. According to MDWFP, two areas with high concentrations of dinosaur fossils include Columbus and Amory. Dinosaur diversity in the state is largely only known by isolated discoveries of fossils and teeth. According to the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), plant-eating hadrosaurs likely were the most prevalent dinosaurs in Mississippi. Mississippi also had dromaeosaurs, a small meat-eating raptor similar to the velociraptor, and ornithomimosaurs, dinosaurs with an ostrich-like appearance that had feathers. Remains of large theropods, relatives of the Tyrannosaurus rex, have also been found in Mississippi. Despite having a fossil record akin to a mismatched puzzle, research has made noteworthy connections. In 2016, a tooth of a horned dinosaur known as a ceratopsian found near New Albany made history; it was the first reported ceratopsid dinosaur found in that part of North America. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Science
- Time of India
World Snake Day 2025 at MMNS: Touch live snakes and uncover the secrets of nature's most misunderstood creatures; know more details
The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (MMNS) is calling the public to slither into discovery at its annual World Snake Day celebration, which this year will take place on Friday, June 13, 2025. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The event provides participants with an exclusive chance to meet live snakes, learn from experienced naturalists, and uncover the ecological significance of these much-maligned reptiles. While World Snake Day is officially observed on July 16, museum authorities have advanced their celebration to an early date because of climatic issues in observing some snakes during the hottest part of the summer. "It's all about raising awareness about snakes around the world," explained Aaron Holbrook, MMNS Assistant Director. "We want to inform the public of the important role snakes have in ecosystems and assist in overcoming unnecessary fears that are based more on myth than reality." World Snake Day 2025 : Why MMNS celebrates in June and not in July The museum's timing of holding the event during mid-June as opposed to July is strategic. Numerous indigenous species of snakes will seek refuge underground during peak summer heat, becoming less accessible and harder to display for educational exposure. 'Once the heat kicks in, a lot of these species go underground to escape it,' Holbrook explained. 'By holding the event earlier, we're able to introduce the public to a wider variety of species, including some rarely seen in the wild. ' Some of the snakes showcased in the event form part of the permanent collection of the museum, while others are temporarily harvested from the wild for use in education purposes and responsibly released back to their natural habitats afterwards. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Highlights of the MMNS World Snake Day experience The MMNS World Snake Day celebration promises a combination of education, conservation messaging, and entertainment that is family-friendly. People will be able to: View live snake species up close, including native and exotic varieties Interact safely with select non-venomous snakes under expert supervision Witness a rare two-headed snake, a unique natural phenomenon Engage with herpetologists and get your snake-related questions answered Create fun and educational snake-themed crafts for all ages Take part in hands-on learning activities that explore snake biology, behavior, and conservation Girl Scouts of Greater Mississippi can earn the official MMNS Snake Day patch Boy Scouts can meet several requirements for the Reptile and Amphibian Merit Badge Enjoy food and refreshments available for purchase at Spotter's Snack Shack Snakes aren't scary; they're essential- here's why MMNS has a mission to change people's attitudes about snakes from fear to respect by emphasizing their vital role in ensuring healthy ecosystems. From pest control to balancing biodiversity, snakes offer natural services that are beneficial to agriculture, public health, and native wildlife. "The more we learn about these animals, the better we can conserve them—and ourselves," Holbrook said. Along with live demonstrations, the museum will offer materials that address frequent misconceptions like: Do copperheads actually smell like cucumbers? What are the most frequently encountered snakes in Mississippi ? ? How do you treat a snakebite? These subjects will also be addressed in The Clarion-Ledger's upcoming Snake Week, a special daily series of articles on snake science, conservation concerns, and recent wildlife encounters throughout the state. MMNS World Snake Day 2025 event details Date: Friday, June 13, 2025 Friday, June 13, 2025 Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Place: Mississippi Museum of Natural Science 2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS Mississippi Museum of Natural Science 2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS Admission: Covered by general museum admission Adults: $9 Seniors (60+): $8 Children (3–18): $7 Children 3 and under and MMNS Foundation members: Free Tickets: Online or at the door - Food and refreshments will be available for sale from Spotter's Snack Shack, on the grounds. Whether you are an inquisitive child, a wildlife conservationist, or just someone wanting to overcome your fear of snakes, MMNS World Snake Day presents a unique and interactive experience with some of nature's most intriguing reptiles. The event showcases the museum's ongoing passion for wildlife education, conservation, and community outreach. Also Read |
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Picnic in the Park at LeFleur's Bluff Playground
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – You can enjoy Picnic in the Park at LeFleur's Bluff Playground in Jackson. The event will take place on Saturday, May 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There will be family-friendly activities, food trucks and more! The event is hosted by the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science and the Mississippi Children's Museum. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists identify dinosaur tooth found in Mississippi
Editor's Note: Video above shows 2025 Fossil Road Show JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Officials with the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) said a fossil tooth found in the state was recently identified as belonging to a dinosaur. According to officials, MDEQ's State Geological Survey scientists helped the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science with an evening fossil program last month. Following a lecture, the public was invited to bring their fossil collections in to display and have their finds identified by a state scientist. Mississippi State researchers help unearth giant mosasaur fossil near campus One of the scientists worked with a collection of fossil teeth brought in by Jacob Tucker, a northeast Mississippi fossil collector. One tooth caught their attention. According to MDEQ, the tooth was found along an outcrop of the Late Cretaceous in age, Tombigbee Sand Formation in Monroe County on June 16, 2021, by Tucker and his friend, Jeremy Forrester. Scientists identified the tooth as belonging to a heavily-armored plant eating dinosaur from the family of ankylosaurian dinosaurs, called Nodosaurs. This dinosaur had thick rows of knobby armored plates with keratin sheaths covering their backs, called osteoderms, that provided protection from attack from large theropod dinosaurs. The fossil was donated and accessioned into the state's paleontological collections at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. It will be curated for future research by scientists on Mississippi's dinosaurs. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: May 9-11
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Take some time to unwind with friends, family or yourself this weekend. Below you'll find a list of some fun events going on this weekend (May 9-11) around Mississippi. – Jackson – Friday This family-friendly event invites guests to explore the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science after hours, meet live owls up close, and take a guided night hike in search of these mysterious birds of prey where they will learn how to listen for and identify different owl species. – Clinton – Friday A community favorite, the Dinner and a Movie series selects a mix of new releases and popular classic films to share with the community free of charge. – Clinton – Friday The event will be held at Northside Elementary School. – Natchez – Friday Enjoy a free live music concert featuring Islands of Rhythm! – Ridgeland – Friday Against the backdrop of a balmy sunset, a starry night sky and the gentle waves of the Rez, MSO treats listeners young, old and in-between to a lineup of favorites from stage, screen and the top of the charts. Classics in the Courtyard – Vicksburg – Friday Enjoy live music by Keys vs Strings. The musical entertainment is provided for free. Fools – Vicksburg – Friday Enjoy this comedic fable written by Neil Simon. – Jackson – Friday, Saturday & Sunday More than 100 photorealistic dinosaurs move in to the Jackson Convention Complex this weekend. – Jackson – Friday, Saturday & Sunday This exhibition will feature over 50 handmade and machine-stitched quilts from MMA's permanent collection, including Crossroads Quilters, Gwendolyn Magee, and several collected by American photographer Roland L. Freeman on his travels. – Jackson – Friday, Saturday & Sunday Enter the wonderfully puzzling world of Mindbender Mansion, an eclectic place full of brainteasers and interactive challenges guaranteed to test the brain power and problem solving skills of even the most experienced puzzlers! Hurricane Katrina: Mississippi Remembers – Jackson – Friday, Saturday & Sunday Hurricane Katrina: Mississippi Remembers showcases photographs by Vicksburg-based artist Melody Golding, documenting the resilience of Mississippians after the storm. – Natchez – Friday, Saturday & Sunday Enjoy exciting thrill rides, kiddie rides, games with prizes galore and your favorite fair foods. – Jackson – Saturday There will be exhibits from Canadian National Railway Company, Operation Lifesavers, Central Mississippi Model Railroad Association, National Model Railroad Association and more. – Jackson – Saturday Southern coffee culture takes center stage at the inaugural Jackson Coffee Festival, a celebration of everything coffee. – Jackson – Saturday Country and rock singer and American Idol finalist Colin Stough will headline the 2025 Mississippi Makers Fest, a free music, food, and arts festival. – Jackson – Saturday Enjoy a free, family-friendly performance of Shakespeare's As You Like It, presented by the New Stage. – Jackson – Saturday Gather for a powerful evening of community dialogue honoring lives lost to HIV/AIDS and celebrating the healing role of art in our communities. – Jackson – Saturday From persimmons to peaches, from bok choy to butter beans, the Mississippi Farmers Market is the one place to go for the freshest fruits and vegetables that are grown in the state. – Clinton- Saturday While you're there, enjoy live music and treat yourself to delicious food and sweet treats from local eateries and on-site vendors. – Clinton – Saturday This series of free concerts in Lions Club Park includes a variety of performances for music lovers of all ages. – Flowood – Saturday The Flowood Family Festival returns to Liberty Park and will feature contemporary Christian music artist, Crowder, as the headliner. – Madison – Saturday Enjoy delicious treats and yummy tea, in a fairy-tale setting. Perfect for princesses, ages 2 to 11 years old. Tickets are limited. – Natchez – Saturday Natchez Festival of Music presents the moving story of the friendship between legendary singer Patsy Cline and her greatest fan, Louise Segar. – Natchez – Saturday A special event celebrating the 197th freedom anniversary of Prince Abdul Rahman Ibrahima and his wife, Isabella. – Natchez – Saturday The Miss-Lou Makers Market are local handmade artists from Mississippi and Louisiana gathered into an exclusive vendor showcase at the Natchez Bluff Gazebo. – Natchez – Saturday Every week there will be live fresh produce, baked goods, fresh dairy, and arts and crafts all from local growers and artists. – Ridgeland – Saturday The event will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There will be a musical performance by Southwind. – Ridgeland – Saturday You're invited to an enchanted evening filled with the joys of tea time and painting at the unforgettable and beautiful CW Organics Tea Room. National Train Day at the Old Depot Museum – Vicksburg – Saturday Reduced admission includes a museum tour, games, prizes, and popcorn. Second Saturday – Vicksburg – Saturday Enjoy local musicians, merchants, vendors and entertainment. – Jackson – Sunday Join the JXN Run Club for an uplifting and community-driven run every Sunday. – Ridgeland – Sunday Enjoy a Special Mother's Day Brunch Menu. – Hattiesburg – Friday Enjoy performances by a diverse lineup of talented musicians, ranging from local favorites to regional acts, covering various genres to suit all musical tastes. – Laurel – Friday Wine Down is a prefect date night or girls' night out! Pick up your cup from the LMS Entry tent, located at the corner of Central Avenue and North Magnolia Street. – Laurel – Friday Enjoy karaoke at 320 5th St. in Laurel. Run for Roses Barrel Race – Hattiesburg – Friday and Saturday The event will be held at the Forrest County Multipurpose Center. Wear western attire or Run for Roses shirt! – Hattiesburg – Friday, Saturday & Sunday The Hattiesburg Pocket Museum has a new exhibit every month, so be sure to head downtown for a small surprise! Second Saturday – Zoo Tunes – Hattiesburg – Saturday All things musical will be happening throughout the zoo as a part of the Second Saturday Celebration. Pretty Pittie Putt Pawty – Hattiesburg – Saturday Whether you're a golf pro or just here for the pawsome after-party, there's something for everyone! Sweet Home Studio 601 – Hattiesburg – Saturday Studio 601 is back again at Hattiesburg's Historic Saenger Theater for their Sweet Home Studio 601 recital. – Laurel – Saturday Explore local vendors selling handmade crafts, unique products, and delicious food. – Laurel – Saturday Step back in time at Landrum's Homestead & Village during our History Alive event. – Laurel – Saturday There will be a party on their patio featuring live music and their famous Ribeye Steak Sandwiches. – Laurel – Saturday Proceeds from this event support Kamp Kaleidoscope, a summer camp hosted by TEAAM for children and adults diagnosed with Autism and related neurodiversities. Brunch with Bertie – Hattiesburg – Saturday and Sunday Guests can enjoy a full brunch while three beautiful giraffes look on from their yard. – Hattiesburg – Sunday Cosplayers & Gaming Culture play sweet two player co-op with the arts and dance scene in Hattiesburg at this themed event! Hattiesburg Craft Beer Fest – Hattiesburg – Sunday Attendees can sample over 100 craft beers while they listen to live music. John Crist: Jokes for Humans – Hattiesburg – Sunday John Crist is one of today's fastest-rising stand-up comedians, earning more than one billion video views, more than seven million fans on social media and sold-out shows from coast to coast. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
