About Rancho La Brea

fossil work at the tar pits rancho la brea
Excavators at La Brea Tar Pits painstakingly unearth the fossils of megafauna and microfossils.

Our research group uses fossils preserved in asphaltic sediments to investigate big questions related to climate change, evolution, and paleoecology.

Because Rancho La Brea represents the largest collection of late Pleistocene asphaltic fossils in the world, we use this opportunity to train students, build collections through excavation, prepare and conserve fossils in our public viewing Fossil Lab and curate this massive collection onsite. Our staff also use these collections to study scientific questions with visiting academics. Much of the current research could not be possible without the unique geological circumstances that occur in the La Basin and the efforts of the paleontologists who came before us.

Geology around Rancho La Brea

Historic Excavations

Early Researchers at Rancho La Brea

As a place-based museum, we are also committed to engaging the communities around us, sharing our research through exhibits, and preserving this National Natural Landmark for future generations.

 

Our Staff

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Preparator, Rancho La Brea
Karin Rice

As a Preparator at Project 23, Karin is responsible for excavating fossils, training volunteers and students and sharing her expertise with the public.

Collections Manager, Rancho La Brea
Gary Takeuchi

As Collections Manager, Mr. Takeuchi co-manages all of the fossils at Rancho La Brea.

Preparator, Rancho La Brea
Laura Tewksbury

As a Preparator at Project 23, Ms. Tewksbury is responsible for excavating fossils, training volunteers and students and sharing her expertise with the public.

Our Policies

We are part of the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County. You can find more information about our positions, policies, and processes here.