LIVINGSTON, Ala. — University of West Alabama paleontologist James Lamb is a fan of dinosaurs.

    At this office, Lamb spoke about the Mosasaur, the aquatic dinosaur made famous in the Jurassic World trailer.

    “Mosasaur is an air-breather,” Lamb said. “There are several different species of Mosasaur ranging from nine to 10 feet as an adult … the largest ever found was about 50 feet long. If you look at these guys, their closest living relative is the Komodo Dragon.”

    What many don’t know is that the remains of the Mosasaur have been found throughout the region.

    “We find these here in Alabama,” Lamb said. “I’ve excavated a half-dozen large Mosasaur skulls in the state over my career,” Lamb said.

    Dr. John McCall, dean of the UWA Natural Science and Math department, has found them as well.

    “We were down on the Tombigbee River at Bluff Port and we found a Mosasaur skeleton,” McCall said. “We could see three or four vertebrae sticking out of the white cliffs. So, yes, they are here.”

    Lamb said about two-thirds of Alabama and all of Florida were under water when Mosasaur thrived.

    “Everywhere you go on the planet where there are marine rocks you will find those Mosasaur fossils,” Lamb said.

    Both Lamb and McCall said too many Alabama fossils are unearthed and taken elsewhere.

    “Most people are surprised when they learn Alabama has produced more dinosaur skulls than any other state east of the Mississippi river, but none of them have stayed here,” Lamb said. “I want people who are from here to see these things. People from Choctaw County go to the Smithsonian in Washington, and go, ‘Wow, this was found a mile from where I live.’ We ought to have those here,” Lamb said.

    Those interested in UWA’s Natural Science and Math Department can call 205-652-3414 for more information.