Fossils stolen from Death Valley National Park

Investigators are looking for information on who took fossil footprints from Death Valley National Park.

Read: World’s oldest microfossils found, researches say

The fossils were reported missing by a group of scientist who visit the area regularly. The scientist photographed and recorded the exact location of each footprint and reported it to park rangers.

The fossils reported missing are trackways of mammals and birds that were formed about 3 million to 5 million years ago, when the animals left footprints in a muddy lakeshore area.

Backpackers in the area were photographed and may have witnessed the crime or have information about those responsible. Investigators are offering up to $1,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of those responsible.

Larger pictures of the backpackers

“It’s illegal to collect fossils, rocks, or anything else in National Parks,” said Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds. “The purpose of National Parks is to conserve the landscape and everything it contains for the next generation. I ask that visitors come and enjoy all there is to see and to leave it unimpaired for others to enjoy.”

There are multiple ways you can submit a tip:

CALL the ISB Tip Line 888-653-0009
TEXT to 202-379-4761
ONLINE www.nps.gov/isb and click “Submit a Tip”
EMAIL nps_isb@nps.gov
MESSAGE via Facebook @InvestigativeServicesNPS or Twitter @SpecialAgentNPS