Russian scientists unveiled the remarkably preserved remains of a baby mammoth, discovered in the permafrost-rich Yakutia region. The female mammoth, estimated to be 50,000 years old, has been nicknamed “Yana” after the river basin where she was unearthed this summer.
An Extraordinary Discovery
Experts claim “Yana” is the best-preserved mammoth carcass ever found and one of only seven complete mammoth remains discovered globally. Researchers believe she was around one year old or slightly older at the time of her death. Her remains are 180 kilograms in weight, 120 centimeters tall, and 200 centimeters long.
The discovery was showcased at the Federal University of the North East in Yakutsk. University rector Anatoly Nikolayev expressed amazement at the carcass’s exceptional condition, while researcher Maxim Cheprasov called it a “unique find”.
Digging Deeper into Prehistoric Life
The mammoth was unearthed near the Batagaika research station, a site known for uncovering other prehistoric remains, including a horse, bison, and lemming. Prior to “Yana,” only six other complete mammoth carcasses had been found—five in Russia and one in Canada.
Yakutia’s Permafrost: A Natural Time Capsule
Located near the Arctic Ocean, Yakutia’s permafrost acts as a natural freezer, preserving prehistoric animals for tens of thousands of years. This unique environment makes the region a hotspot for such discoveries, offering valuable insights into ancient life.
