Alberta Palaeontological Society

The Meeting Place for Amateur and Professional Palaeontologists

APS members listening to a description of the Devil's Coulee fossil locality

The Alberta Palaeontological Society (APS) is a non-profit organization founded in 1986. Our main goal is to promote the science of palaeontology through study and education. The APS makes important contributions to the field by discovering new findings and responsibly collecting, curating, and displaying significant fossil specimens. We are passionate about educating the general public, sharing knowledge about palaeontological discoveries, and fostering an appreciation for the ancient past.

Moreover, the society is committed to preserving palaeontological materials for the benefit of future generations. To achieve our mission, the APS actively collaborates with professional and academic communities, working together to safeguard and enhance the understanding of Alberta's rich cultural heritage.

The Alberta Palaeontological Society is dedicated to spreading the wonders of palaeontology, ensuring that people of all ages can explore and appreciate the fascinating world of prehistoric life.

Announcements

Search for Microfossils this Autumn, 2024

by Mona Trick

Aid the research of Dr. Jessica Theodor and Dr. Alex Dutchak of the University of Calgary by searching the matrix (soil) from the Cypress Hills Formation (Middle Eocene) of Saskatchewan to find tiny fossils. We will be using microscopes in room B140 at Mount Royal University because construction has closed the room we used previously. Join us from 1:00 until 3:30 pm. on the following Sundays:

  • December 1, 2024

We are very grateful to Mount Royal University for allowing us to use their microscopes and lab.

Registration is not required, but if you let Mona Trick (cell: (587) 578-4579 or giftshop@albertapaleo.org) know that you are planning to attend, then she can inform you if we need to cancel this session. No experience is required. Due to the delicate nature of this work, only those 12 years and older are allowed to search for the microfossils. Bring tweezers or a small paint brush to pick the tiny fossils from the soil and a pen to label your finds. All of the fossils found will be used to aid their research.

Stay tuned to the December Bulletin for the dates of the microfossil sorting sessions in January and February, 2025, when we will be once again searching using microscopes for tiny fossils.

For more information, see the events page.

A Selection of Tiny Fossils found Dec. 10, 2023 by Atharva Roy
A Selection of Tiny Fossils found Dec. 10, 2023 by Atharva Roy. Photo by Atharva Roy.

Paleo 2025 Symposium Dates and Speakers!

We have some exciting news! The dates and speakers for the 2025 Alberta Paleo Symposium have been set. It will be held on the following dates:

  • Symposium: March 15, 2025
  • Workshop: March 16, 2025

On Saturday, we’ll have an exciting range of speakers from around Canada. There will also be a selection of booths, poster presesentations, and other events for palaeontological enthusiasts of all ages. Best of all, it is completely free to attend!

Our Sunday workshop is especially exciting! Dr. Bamforth and Jackson Sweder of the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum along with Atharva Roy (APS) will be discussing the role of 3D scanning & printing in palaeontology. They will also be demonstrating how to use a 3D printer to create a replica of a fossil. This is a hands-on workshop, so be prepared to get your hands dirty!

For additional details and up-to-date information, please visit our symposium page. We look forward to seeing you there!

Next Event

Field Trip

Dinovember Sleepover at the Royal Tyrrell Museum!

Friday, November 22, 2024 6:30 PM - Saturday, November 23, 2024 11:00 AM

The Alberta Palaeontological Society is excited to invite you to a special overnight event at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology in Drumheller, Alberta!

Date: Friday, November 22 - Saturday, November 23

Itinerary:

  • Friday Evening:
    • 6:30 PM: Arrive at the museum
    • Participate in fun palaeontology activities
    • Enjoy snacks
    • Lights out for the night
  • Saturday Morning:
    • Breakfast
    • Explore the galleries!

Price: $51 per person

Your ticket includes:

  • Evening Snacks & Breakfast
  • Palaeontology activities
  • Full-day admission to the museum

This is a fantastic event for kids & families, but we require at least one adult per five children. Please note also that only children between 5 - 13 years old and their adults are eligible to attend.

Space is limited — we’re only accepting the first 20 registrants, so don’t delay!

This program often fills up quickly, so the deadline for registration is October 21!

Additional Information: Visit Royal Tyrrell Museum Camp-Ins for more details.

This is a rare opportunity during the winter months when palaeontology events are usually scarce, so invite friends and family who share your interest in ancient life. Even if they’re not yet APS members, this could be the perfect introduction!

For more information, see our events page.

Become a Member!

Become a member of the Alberta Palaeontological Society and unlock a world of palaeontological discovery. Engage with fellow enthusiasts, support fossil education, and gain exclusive access to field trips and resources that enrich your understanding of prehistoric life. Join us today and embark on a journey through time together.

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APS Books for Sale

Refer to the Store link on this website for cost, how to purchase a copy and other details. These books will also be available for purchase at our monthly meetings.

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