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
Surprise Winter Field Trip - Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology Sleep-In!
We have a special winter field trip! We will be offering an overnight sleep-in at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology from Friday, November 22 - Saturday, November 23. This is a great opportunity to to take part in palaeontological activities in the winter, when opportunities are usually sparse. It’s also a particularly excellent event for families! For more details, see this announcements or the field trips page.
To sign up, use this form. As space is limited, we are only accepting the first 20 registrants. Due to the nature of the event, only children between 5 - 13 years of age can be accepted. The deadline for registration is October 1!
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 a different room at Mount Royal University because construction has closed the room we used previously. We will post the location on the APS website, as soon as Mount Royal University provides the new location. Join us from 1:00 until 3:30 pm. on the following Sundays:
- October 20, 2024
- November 17, 2024
- 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.
Next Event
Field Trip
Tyndall building stone walking tour, Calgary
Saturday, September 14, 2024
Leader: Tako Koning
Once again, Tako Koning has agreed to conduct his popular tour of Calgary buildings clad with Ordovician-aged Red River Formation limestone originally quarried in Tyndall, Manitoba. See impressively preserved fossils of corals, gastropods, starfish, orthocones and even algae at Calgary landmarks like the historic Bank of Montreal building. This will be a walking tour of several buildings in downtown Calgary, the community of Kensington and the SAIT campus and is suitable for all ages.
To register for this and any other trips, download and complete the field trip permission form.
Registration deadline is September 1, 2024.
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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The APS has a new book for sale!
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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