A previously unknown prehistoric sea monster, named Traskasaura sandrae, has been identified from fossils discovered in British Columbia. These fossils, originally found in 1988 on Vancouver Island, belong to a genus of elasmosaur plesiosaurs that lived around 85 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period. This newly recognised species measured approximately 39 feet in length and featured heavy, sharp teeth well-suited for crushing ammonite shells.
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The remarkable creature displays a strange combination of primitive and advanced traits unseen in other elasmosaurs. Notably, its unique shoulder structure and long neck—with over 50 cervical vertebrae—suggest it was the first plesiosaur adapted to hunt prey from above the water. Researchers believe the abundance of prey in the region supported its specialised hunting techniques.
Lead author F. Robin O’Keefe noted the initial mystery surrounding the fossils and speculated a connection to Antarctic plesiosaurs. However, further study revealed Traskasaura sandrae to be a fascinating example of convergent evolution, showcasing nature’s unexpected diversity. The fossils were declared British Columbia’s official provincial fossil emblem in 2023, cementing their cultural and scientific importance.
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The genus name honours Courtenay, the city where the original fossils were discovered, while the species name pays tribute to Sandra Lee O’Keefe, part of the original research team. These significant specimens are currently displayed at the Courtenay and District Museum and Palaeontology Centre for public viewing.
