In a groundbreaking discovery, the largest known specimen of a prehistoric predator that once ruled the ancient seas has been unearthed in the United Kingdom. Paleontologist Dr. Dean Lomax, standing alongside the colossal find for scale, spearheaded the excavation efforts. This 33-foot (10m) long ichthyosaur fossil, estimated to be around 180 million years old, was uncovered within the confines of the Rutland Water Nature Reserve.

Paleoanthropologist Dr. Dean Lomax, serving as a scale reference, spearheaded the excavation efforts. The 33-foot (10m) long ichthyosaur fossil, estimated to be around 180 million years old, was uncovered in the Rutland Nature Reserve Toilet.

Resembling dolphins, these reptiles, known as ichthyosaurs or “butterfly dragons,” ranged from 3 to 82 feet (1 to 25 m) in size.

This remarkable discovery not only marks the largest specimen found in the United Kingdom but also stands as the most complete fossil of its kind. Believed to be the first of its specific species, Temnodontosaurus trigonosus, ever found in the country.

Upon extraction for preservation and study, the massive block containing the 6-foot (2m) skull and surrounding clay weighed a ton.

Uncovered by Joe Davis, leader of the Leicestershire Conservation and Wildlife Conservation Team, the lagoon island will undergo redevelopment in February 2021.

The skull, hoisted from a massive block of fossilized clay, tipped the scales at a staggering ton. Mr. Davis expressed, “The discovery has been utterly captivating and marks a significant milestone in my career.

“It’s truly remarkable to glean so much insight from this find and ponder the existence of such a magnificent creature that once traversed the seas above us.

“Now, Rutland Water is once again a haven for wetland wildlife, on an unparalleled scale.”

Paleopathologist Dr. Dean Lomax, with extensive experience studying thousands of ichthyosaurs, led the excavation team.

He remarked, “It’s time to direct the excavation.”

“Great Britain boasts a rich history of ichthyosaur discoveries; their fossils have been unearthed here for over 200 years.

“Despite the numerous ichthyosaur fossils found across Britain, it’s astonishing to realize that the Rutland ichthyosaur stands as the largest skeleton ever unearthed in the UK.”

Here, a glimpse of the excavated fossil fins offers a tantalizing preview. “Truly, this is a landmark discovery—one of the most significant in British paleopathological history.”

Paleopathologists will continue their meticulous examination, with findings slated for publication by academic peers.

Currently, the fossil undergoes thorough study and preservation at its revealed site in Shropshire, with plans for eventual display in Rutland.

Fully excavated earlier this year, the remains will feature on BBC Two’s “Digging for Britain” on Tuesday at 20:00 GMT, followed by availability on BBC iPlayer.