10" Fossil Tortoise (Testudo) Shell - South Dakota

This is a 10" long fossil tortoise (Testudo sp.) from the White River Badlands of South Dakota. It is a little compressed but in pretty good condition without the significant crushing seen on many specimens. There is a repaired crack that runs through the entire shell towards the posterior half. There is some restoration and crack repair across the anterior marginal scutes, the nuchal scute and central (vertebral) scute. This restoration and repair is best viewed under black light.

The remaining scutes preserved beautifully and haven't undergone any restoration. The area between the anterior and posterior cavities was filled to provide stability to the specimen, and make it less delicate.

Comes with a display stand.