Markus Kranner, paleontologist at the Geological Service of the State Office for the Environment, introduces us to a find of the century. 10 skull fossils from the Triassic period were found in a quarry in Rauhenebrach: A mass grave of giant amphibians. “A 70-centimeter-long lower jaw protruded from the rock in front of us, peppered with sharp teeth like those of modern crocodiles. We were able to identify numerous other bone remains in the surrounding rocks,” says the employee about the discovery. Find out more about this exciting criminal case from prehistoric times!

How can I take part? Either on site: LRA Bamberg, former post office tower, entrance A, 1st floor (N 100) or connected from the meeting room of the Orangerie Ebrach

or online – from the comfort of your sofa at home – via webex (participation possible via browser or app)

Meeting link:

https://landratsamt-bamberg.webex.com/landratsamt-bamberg/j.php?MTID=me3750e76207a9d10c7031f77b4de2ea1

Meeting identification number: 2786 387 2931

Password: CMvugZJv936

Our very own Ebrachsaurus aka Frankenzilla aka Cyclotosaurus Ebrachensis – a giant carnivorous amphibian from the Triassic period up to 4.5 m long – is really impressive. It’s a good thing that you can only encounter it as a fossil;-)

If you want to know more and marvel at the fossils in the original: There is a very interesting exhibition in Hof until May 29th: https://www.lfu.bayern.de/veranstaltungen/termin_detail.htm?id=747

The picture of the Fankenzilla was taken during the naming competition. Rights holder: Bavarian State Office for the Environment Frankenzilla, the Dino-Killa Created with: OpenAI Sora, 07/2025; DOI: pboxx-pixelboxx-3630188