Australian Fossil Mammal Sites, Paleontological site in Queensland, Australia
The Australian Fossil Mammal Sites are limestone caves and fossil deposits at two separate locations that have preserved animal remains across millions of years. They document the development of wildlife from the Oligocene through the Pleistocene period.
The sites contain fossils from around 25 million years ago and show how Australian mammals changed over vast stretches of time. These records are globally important for understanding mammal evolution.
The land holds deep spiritual significance for the Waanyi people and connects to their traditional knowledge. This living relationship appears in how they understand the ancient landscapes as part of their ongoing cultural practice.
Visitors can see the Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre in Mount Isa, where discoveries and information about the prehistoric past are displayed. It makes sense to check opening hours and access rules beforehand, as the caves and sites are specially protected.
The sites have preserved evidence of surprising animals like meat-eating kangaroos and giant flightless birds that no longer exist. These extinct species reveal how different Australian wildlife looked in the distant past.
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