An Albertasaurous was unearthed at Santa Monica beach on Wednesday, April 25, 2012. The beachside dinosaur excavation marked the launch of Travel Alberta’s summer campaign, promoting travel in the province of Alberta, Canada.

“This is an opportunity for Californians to help us uncover a replica of an authentic Albertosaurus, just as visitors can uncover real dinosaur fossils in Dinosaur Provincial Park,” explains Shelley Grollmuss, Executive Director, North America at Travel Alberta. “Passersby on Santa Monica Beach had a taste of the exciting experiences available to travelers of all ages in Alberta.”

The Albertosaurus—one of the more well-known dinosaurs that roamed the province in prehistoric times—was uncovered on the beach today and measures 27’ from nose to tail. One of the Royal Tyrrell Museum’s top Palaeontologists, Francois Therrien was on hand to oversee the day’s activities and to answer questions from the incredulous spectators. Dr. Therrien studies and excavates real dinosaur fossils in Alberta and is very familiar with the Albertosaurus.

“Alberta is home to some of the world’s richest fossil beds and draws tourists from around the world to experience authentic dinosaur adventures,” explains Dr. Francois, Therrien Ph.D Palaeontologist at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. “The Canadian Badlands are one of the most intriguing areas in Alberta. The striking landscape of hoodoos, canyons and coulees that are found in that area are an explorer’s dream.”

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