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Cartersville Today
By the People, for the People
Massive Prehistoric Crocodile Ruled Southeastern Rivers
Deinosuchus schwimmeri, a 31-foot giant crocodylian, terrorized Late Cretaceous coastlines around 79 million years ago.
Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:20pm
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Recent fossil discoveries in western Georgia have revealed the story of Deinosuchus schwimmeri, a massive prehistoric crocodile that roamed the Late Cretaceous coastline around 79 million years ago. This giant predator, which could grow up to 31 feet long, preyed on large vertebrates including dinosaurs and sea turtles that came to the water's edge.
Why it matters
The discovery and reconstruction of Deinosuchus schwimmeri highlights the potential of advanced paleontological techniques like 3D scanning and digital modeling to refine our understanding of prehistoric life. It also showcases the value of community science and citizen paleontology in expanding the scope of research.
The details
Early fossil finds suggested the presence of a massive predator in the region, but it took years of investigation to fully piece together the story of Deinosuchus schwimmeri. Paleontologists determined it was a distinct lineage of giant crocodylians, with two other species inhabiting western North America. Analysis of Deinosuchus schwimmeri's anatomy, including its long, broad snout and banana-sized teeth, revealed it was adept at crushing and holding large prey.
- Deinosuchus schwimmeri lived around 79 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period.
- Initial fossil discoveries were made in 2010 by paleontologist Dr. David Schwimmer and student Samantha Harrell.
- A comprehensive re-evaluation of Deinosuchus fossils was published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology in July 2020.
- In December 2025, the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville, Georgia unveiled a 31-foot replica of Deinosuchus schwimmeri.
The players
Dr. David Schwimmer
A paleontologist at Columbus State University who conducted early investigations into Deinosuchus fossils.
Samantha Harrell
A student who worked with Dr. Schwimmer on early Deinosuchus discoveries.
Dr. Adam Cossette
A researcher who co-authored a 2020 study that established Deinosuchus as a distinct lineage of giant crocodylians.
Professor Christopher Brochu
A co-author of the 2020 study that clarified the taxonomy of Deinosuchus species.
Tellus Science Museum
A museum in Cartersville, Georgia that unveiled a life-size replica of Deinosuchus schwimmeri in 2025.
What’s next
Future research on Deinosuchus schwimmeri and other prehistoric creatures in the Southeast will likely focus on using advanced techniques like 3D scanning and digital modeling to virtually reconstruct incomplete fossils and explore evolutionary relationships with greater precision. There will also be an increased emphasis on engaging the public through citizen science projects to expand the scope of paleontological discoveries in the region.
The takeaway
The story of Deinosuchus schwimmeri showcases how cutting-edge paleontological methods and community involvement can shed new light on ancient predators, providing a window into the prehistoric past and inspiring greater public interest in science.
