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La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

Los Angeles, California

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Fun Facts

Yes, the tar pits are still active, with natural asphalt seeping up from the ground, creating bubbles and a unique sight for visitors.

Over 3.5 million fossils have been discovered, representing more than 600 species of animals and plants.

The oldest fossils date back to around 50,000 years ago, offering a glimpse into the Ice Age era.

Yes, a life-sized replica of a Columbian mammoth greets visitors at the entrance, showcasing one of the many species that once roamed the area.

Pit 91 is an active excavation site where scientists continue to uncover fossils, making it a live dig that visitors can observe.

The tar pits have been featured in several movies and TV shows, adding a touch of prehistoric mystery to the silver screen.

The distinctive smell comes from the natural asphalt, or bitumen, which is a thick, sticky form of crude oil seeping from the ground.

The site is renowned for its rich deposit of Ice Age fossils, making it a key location for paleontological research.

The La Brea Tar Pits have unearthed numerous saber-toothed cat fossils, one of the most iconic predators of the Ice Age.

Situated in Hancock Park, the tar pits offer a unique blend of natural history and urban culture.

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