This photo shows the initial stages of exposing the vertebra column and the ribs that are still articulated.
Approximately 60% of the Stegosaurus is now exposed. The vertebra column, plates, spikes, legbones and ribs can be seen.
Each skeletal element gets its own unique number prior to plaster jacketing and removal.
The various skeletal elements have been numbered. Some of the bones are numbered in more than one spot in case it is later necessary to separate sections along natural fractures for optimal plaster jacketing and protection.
A lower leg and toe bones have been jacketed and will soon be ready to be removed from the site.
The jacketed lower leg is in the foreground while many ribs and a femur can also be seen.
Each rib is given a number and its location positioned on the site map.
Each vertebra in the column are given numbers and the positions noted on the site map. A simple method of paper labels and elmers glue provides an easy method to label the specimens as well as easy removal when preparation in the lab begins.
