South African rock shelter artifacts show early humans colonized inland areas
March 31 (UPI) -- Archaeological evidence from a rock shelter in South Africa suggests early humans colonized a variety of environments, including inland settings, undermining theories linking the origins of our species to the coast. For generations, the rock shelter on Ga-Mohana Hill, positioned at the edge of South Africa's Kalahari Desert, has served as a spiritual site for local people. But until now, researchers weren't sure how long the shelter has been used by humans. Advertisement To find out, archaeologists excavated a collection of white calcite crystals and ostrich eggshell fragments, thought to be used as water vessels. Researchers detailed their excavation and analysis efforts in a new paper, published Wednesday in the journal Nature. "The crystals point towards spiritual or...
