Paleontologists Uncovered Rare T. rex in Wyoming

A partial T. rex skeleton was found on a ranch, revealing unique mummified remains from 67 million years ago.

Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Geology

Partial fossilized dinosaur skull and articulated arm bones embedded within layered sedimentary rock in a high plains desert landscape. — Paleontologists recently unearthed a rare, partially mummified T. rex skeleton on a Wyoming ranch, providing scientists with unique insights into dinosaur anatomy. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Paleontologists discovered a partial sub-adult Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton on the Zerbst Ranch in eastern Wyoming. The 7,000-pound specimen dates back 67 million years and was transported to the University of Chicago for further study.

Why it matters

The specimen is uniquely preserved in three dimensions and appears mummified, potentially suggesting it was buried alive during a flood. This discovery offers rare insight into dinosaur anatomy, as the fossil includes a complete hand, forearm, and articulated wishbone.

The fossil originates from the Lance Formation and includes a complete hand, forearm, and an articulated wishbone. The remains show no evidence of scales and are being prepared for analysis after transport to the University of Chicago.

The players

University of Chicago

This academic institution is currently conducting the preparation and scientific study of the T. rex specimen.

Zerbst Ranch

Located in eastern Wyoming, this private property serves as the site where the mummified dinosaur remains were discovered.

The details

The skeleton was recovered from the Zerbst Ranch, an area where other dinosaur mummies have been unearthed in the past. Researchers are currently analyzing the three-dimensional preservation of the remains to better understand the sub-adult dinosaur.

The fossil specimen dates back 67 million years to the Lance Formation.
Research findings regarding the fossil are expected to be published in early 2027.

The Big Picture

This discovery follows a pattern established by the historical record of the Lance Formation. It contributes to the broader understanding of the ecosystem preserved within this specific geological layer.

While this discovery provides significant insight into prehistoric biology, it highlights the importance of preserving geological sites across the state. Such findings continue to attract scientific interest to Wyoming's fossil-rich landscapes.

The takeaway

The rare preservation of this specimen provides a unique window into the life of a sub-adult T. rex. Future studies will likely clarify the circumstances surrounding its burial and the unique physical characteristics of the animal.