Dinosaur Footprints Discovered in Udon Thani
A local government official in Udon Thani has been recognized after his casual photos of strange rock markings led to the discovery of 120-million-year-old dinosaur footprints.
A 32-year-old local government official, Mr. Pichai Prathetsena, has gained national attention after discovering what experts confirmed to be authentic dinosaur footprints at Tat Noi Waterfall in Ban Phue District, Udon Thani. According to Khaosod Online, the discovery began when Mr. Pichai posted photos of the markings in an online group to ask if they were genuine.
Following the viral post, the Department of Mineral Resources under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment dispatched experts to the site. They confirmed the prints belong to a carnivorous theropod dinosaur from the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 120 million years ago. Notably, the experts indicated that the creature was larger than those previously discovered in Phu Wiang, Khon Kaen.
Mr. Pichai is currently traveling to Bangkok to receive an honorary plaque from Minister Suchart Chomklin. For residents and travelers, this discovery highlights the rich paleontological heritage of the Isan region. While the site has been verified, visitors should wait for official guidance from the Department of Mineral Resources regarding site access and preservation efforts before planning a trip to the waterfall to view the prints, as the area may require specific management to protect the fossils from damage.
