A fragment of ancient reptile skin discovered in an Oklahoma cave is changing what scientists know about early life on land. Preserved In An Ancient Cave Of Tar And OilThe fossil was unearthed from the Richards Spur limestone cave system in Oklahoma, a site already famous for its Paleozoic-era fossils. Collected in 2018 by amateur fossil hunters Bill and Julie May, the piece sat quietly among other finds from the Richards Spur cave system in Oklahoma. Its fossils dominate the Richards Spur site, making it the best match for this ancient patch of skin. Though it may be no larger than a fingernail, this piece of ancient skin holds answers that connect the past to the present in ways scientists are only beginning to explore.