When mastodons roamed in Andalusia

In a few days, the fourth excavation campaign at the Baza 1 site will be completed. This site, near the city of Granada, has become a reference point for studying the Pliocene in Europe. One of the most interesting novelties of the excavation has to do with the discovery of the remains of two different species of Mastodons.

Credit: CanalSur

The entire area, known as La Hoya de Baza, was occupied by a large lake four and a half million years ago. The excavation area was then probably close to the shore, in an area of marshes and mudflats where a large number of animals were trapped.

At the Baza 1 site, remains of large cattle, antelopes, three-toed horses, deer, turtles and two species of mastodons have been found.

Credit: CanalSur

Another novelty in this excavation has to do with the way in which it is planned and documented. Traditional methods are being combined with photography and the use of drones.

With this year's results, the objective for future campaigns is to extend the excavation that is now financed by the Baza City Council with more funding and personnel.

Source: CanalSur [July 07, 2018]