Celebrate Universal Coprolite Day
The Calvert Marine Museum (CMM) invites everyone to explore the fascinating world of fossilized feces during the fourth annual Universal Coprolite Day on Monday, February 17, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This quirky yet educational event highlights the remarkable role coprolites play in understanding prehistoric life. The word “coprolite” is derived from the Greek words kouros (dung) and lithos (stone) and refers to fossilized excrement.
Join us in the museum’s Harms Gallery, lobby, and Paleo Hall for hands-on activities, interactive learning stations, and a deep dive into the mysteries of coprolites. Discover the rich stories these ancient fossils tell us about life long ago. And don’t worry—these fossils may look like poop, but they won’t smell like it! Through the process of mineral replacement, the organic materials that give feces its odor are long gone.
Back for its second year, we’re spotlighting the incredible Dung Beetle! Did you know some dung beetles can bury up to 250 times their body weight in dung in just one night? These unsung heroes of the ecosystem can be found across the globe, with over 5,000 species known to science. Thanks to a special loan from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, we will be showcasing a collection of living and fossilized dung beetles from around the world. You won’t want to miss this fascinating display!
Join us for a Scats and Tracks Walk through the museum grounds! Explore the natural world and learn how to identify animal tracks and scat with the help of museum educators. This guided walk is a fun and educational way to connect with the local wildlife and gain a deeper appreciation for the animals that call the region home. Plus, shop for poo-tastic treasures in our Museum Store!
Mark your calendars and join us for a day filled with fun, learning, and excrement excitement at Universal Coprolite Day at the Calvert Marine Museum. It’s a fossil celebration like no other!
Explore how the prehistoric past, natural environments, and maritime heritage come to life and tell a unique story of the Chesapeake Bay. The Calvert Marine Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $11 for adults; $9 for seniors, military, and veterans with valid I.D, AAA and AARP members; $6 for children ages 5 – 12; children under 5 and museum members are admitted free. Proud participant in Museums for ALL. For more information about the museum, upcoming events, or membership, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com
