Antelope Shale facts for kids

The Antelope Shale is a special type of rock layer found in the San Joaquin Valley in central California. Think of it like a big, flat stack of rocks deep underground.

This rock layer is located beneath another formation called the Etchegoin Formation. The Etchegoin Formation was formed during the Pliocene time period.

Scientists have found fossils inside the Antelope Shale. These fossils are very old, dating back to the Cretaceous period. This was a long time ago, when dinosaurs roamed the Earth!

What is the Antelope Shale?

The Antelope Shale is a specific type of rock unit. Geologists use these names to describe different layers of rock. These layers help us understand Earth's history. The Antelope Shale is made mostly of a rock called shale. Shale is a fine-grained sedimentary rock. It forms from mud and clay that get pressed together over millions of years.

Where is the Antelope Shale Found?

You can find the Antelope Shale in the San Joaquin Valley. This valley is a large, long area in the middle of California. It's known for its rich farmland. The Antelope Shale is deep underground in this region.

How Old is the Antelope Shale?

The Antelope Shale dates back to the Cretaceous period. This period lasted from about 145 to 66 million years ago. It was the last part of the "Age of Dinosaurs." Finding fossils from this time helps scientists learn about ancient life. It also tells us what the environment was like millions of years ago in California.