Australian Fossil Mammal Sites (Riversleigh / Naracoorte)
Unesco World Heritage

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Australian Fossil Mammal Sites (Riversleigh / Naracoorte)

The Australian Fossil Mammal Sites, located in the states of Queensland and South Australia, are collectively known as Riversleigh and Naracoorte. These sites have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994, owing to their exceptional fossil record that provides valuable insights into the evolution of Australia's unique mammal fauna.

History

The history of the Australian Fossil Mammal Sites dates back millions of years. The Riversleigh site, located in northwest Queensland, contains fossils that span over 25 million years, from the late Oligocene to the late Miocene epochs. The Naracoorte site, situated in the southeast of South Australia, preserves fossils from the Pleistocene epoch, which occurred around 500,000 to 1.6 million years ago.

The significance of these sites was first recognized in the 1960s when scientists began uncovering an extraordinary array of fossils. These fossils provided evidence of the diverse and unique mammal fauna that once inhabited Australia. The discoveries at Riversleigh and Naracoorte have since played a crucial role in understanding the evolution and ecological history of Australia's mammals.

Current State

The Australian Fossil Mammal Sites continue to be actively researched and excavated by paleontologists and scientists from around the world. The sites are renowned for their exceptional preservation of fossils, including complete skeletons, soft tissues, and even fossilized footprints.

Riversleigh, in particular, is known for its rich deposits of fossilized bats, marsupials, and reptiles. The site has yielded numerous significant discoveries, including the remains of the world's oldest known bat and the only known fossil evidence of a marsupial lion. These findings have greatly contributed to our understanding of the evolution and diversity of Australia's mammal fauna.

Naracoorte, on the other hand, is famous for its extensive cave system, which has preserved an exceptional collection of fossils. The site contains the remains of numerous extinct megafauna, including giant kangaroos, marsupial lions, and enormous wombats. The fossils found at Naracoorte have provided valuable insights into the past climate and environment of Australia, as well as the extinction of these ancient creatures.

Both Riversleigh and Naracoorte are protected areas, managed by the respective state governments and national parks services. Strict regulations are in place to ensure the preservation and conservation of these important fossil sites. Access to the sites is restricted to authorized personnel and guided tours, allowing visitors to appreciate the scientific and cultural significance of these remarkable locations.

The Australian Fossil Mammal Sites (Riversleigh / Naracoorte) continue to be a source of fascination and discovery for scientists and visitors alike. These sites offer a unique window into Australia's ancient past, providing invaluable information about the evolution and diversity of its mammal fauna. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, they are not only of national importance but also contribute to our global understanding of Earth's natural history.