Fossilized remains of three Ice Age mastodons discovered in Peru

Fossilized remains of three Ice Age mastodons, believed to be between 11,000 and 12,000 years old, have been discovered in the Peruvian Andes near Chambara, about 300 km east of Lima, Reuters reported.

Excavations began in 2019, revealing nearly complete specimens, one of which could be the most preserved mastodon in Peru.

Mastodons, similar to but distinct from mammoths, likely migrated from North America to South America in search of food and water due to climate changes.

Researchers suggest that the rise of the Andes and the retreat of sea waters left lagoons in the Mantaro Valley, providing water sources for the animals.

Scientists hope further excavations will yield additional fossils, possibly from other species.

Peru is known for its rich prehistoric findings. In April, paleontologists unveiled the fossilized skull of a river dolphin that swam through the Peruvian Amazon 16 million years ago.