Fossils are the remains or traces of ancient plants and animals that have been preserved in rock.
The most famous fossils found in South Africa are of a species of ape called Australopithecus, which is believed to be the earliest known ancestor of modern humans. They were discovered by Raymond Dart in 1924 at a site called Taung, near Johannesburg.
Where are important fossils found in South Africa?
The most important fossil sites in South Africa are the Karoo, the Cape and the Free State. The Cradle of Humankind is a region in South Africa that has been known for the important fossils found there. It is also called the Cradle of Humankind because it is where our ancestors are believed to have evolved from. The fossils found here date back to 3.3 million years ago and show what the world was like during that time.
The region of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, and Kromdraai are all places in South Africa where important fossils have been found.
How many fossils have been found in South Africa?
In the past, South Africa has been home to many types of animals. Fossils of these animals have been found in various locations around the country. There are over 3,000 fossils in South Africa have been found so far.
