Get the latest Science News and Discoveries

Early humans were bringing fire into caves 1.8 million years ago


A new study suggests early humans were using fire in South Africa’s Wonderwerk Cave as far back as 1.79 million years ago. Researchers found burned bones deep inside the cave, where natural wildfires could not have reached, indicating that fire was likely carried in and maintained by human ancestors. The discovery pushes back the timeline for fire use and reveals surprisingly sophisticated behavior long before humans could create fire on demand.

None

Get the Android app

Or read this on ScienceDaily

Read more on:

Photo of Fire

Fire

Photo of Caves

Caves

Photo of Early humans

Early humans

Related news:

News photo

Human Ancestors May Have Used Fire Far Earlier Than We Thought, Study Reveals

News photo

Ancient human ancestors may have first used fire 1.79 million years ago

News photo

Evidence of Fire Use by Early Humans May Date Back Nearly 1.8 Million Years