In an exhilarating discovery for the scientific community, thousands of dinosaur footprints estimated to be 210 million years old have been uncovered in the stunning terrain of Stelvio National Park in northern Italy.
The footprints, measuring up to 40cm (15 inches) in diameter, are found in parallel rows, with many displaying distinct traces of toes and claws. Experts believe these markings belong to prosauropods, long-necked herbivores notable for their small heads and sharp claws. Milan-based paleontologist Cristiano Dal Sasso expressed his amazement, stating, I never would have imagined I'd come across such a spectacular discovery in the region where I live.
The discovery emerged last September when a photographer identified the footprints stretching hundreds of meters along a vertical mountain wall within the park. This area, formerly a tidal flat during the Triassic period, now forms a part of the majestic Alps.
Dal Sasso remarked on the profound significance of the find, highlighting the behaviour patterns exhibited by the dinosaurs. The tracks suggest they gathered in groups for potential defense mechanisms, illustrating their social interactions. Furthermore, some evidence also indicates that these dinosaurs sometimes rested on their forelimbs, as shown by handprints in front of the footprints.
Elio Della Ferrera, the photographer behind this discovery, hopes this revelation will ignite a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world around us. Given that the area is remote and lacks access by conventional paths, drones and remote sensing technology will be employed to study the site further.
Stelvio National Park is situated in the Fraele Valley, near the Italian-Swiss border, and is expected to attract further attention as it coincides with the upcoming Winter Olympics. According to Italy's Ministry of Culture, this intersection of history and sport presents a unique narrative that binds past and present.
