12-Foot Mammoth Tusk Unearthed in Idaho; Skeleton Sought

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A 12-foot Columbian mammoth tusk has been unearthed in Idaho and scientists say more of the fossil skeleton might still be buried at the site.

Researchers say the large herbivore lived 72,000 to 200,000 years ago and was about 16 to 19 when it died. Its left tusk was found earlier this year at American Falls Reservoir. Researchers with Idaho State University unearthed part of the skull last year and about 8 feet of the right tusk after a volunteer with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation spotted the fossil.

Rising water at the reservoir forced a stop to the excavation, but researchers returned when the water dropped. Idaho Museum of Natural History collections manager Mary Thompson says the tusk will likely go on display next year.