Teen unearths 150-million-year-old dinosaur fossil on first day of Montana dig

Aidan Connor’s summer expedition in Red Lodge, Montana, turned memorable when he uncovered a fossil dating back to the Jurassic period during the dig. (Image: Aidan Connor/Cheshire Academy)

A summer trip changed a student’s life in Montana. A 150-million-year-old fossil came from his careful hands. The ancient bone surfaced during a dig near Red Lodge. The find brought fresh pride to a small Connecticut school.

How did a student uncover a Jurassic fossil?

Aidan Connor found the fossil during a July dig. He is a senior at Cheshire Academy in New Haven County. The school confirmed the discovery in its official release. The bone appeared on his first morning at the site. Connor noticed a pinkie-sized finger bone in loose soil. The piece likely came from a small Jurassic dinosaur. He needed about one hour to lift the fossil. Staff said this was quick for such delicate work. Connor said the task felt very nerve-wracking. He added that fieldwork needs calm and slow hands.

“Connor told Fox News Digital the experience felt deeply satisfying for his childhood self.” (Image: Aidan Connor/Cheshire Academy)

What support helped him join the Montana dig?

Connor joined the excavation through the Rizzolo Larson Venture Grant. The grant helps students travel for personal projects. His trip was run with the Elevation Science Institute. The programme brought teenagers from across the country. The school said the grant lets students try cool work. Past projects sent pupils to South Africa and Bangladesh. Leaders said the aim is to fuel wide learning. The dean praised Connor’s patience and steady practice. He said these traits build strong habits for study.

What plans does the student hold for his future?

Connor spent the rest of his week plastering fossils. The work protects pieces before travel to research labs. Staff said his passion shows clear promise for future study. They added that his love of learning drives his choices. Connor hopes to study palaeontology or museum studies at university. He is still reviewing his options for next spring. The school said his summer work shows his growth. They noted that his story reflects the academy’s mission.