Recently, the 2025 field archaeological excavation at Hualongdong Site officially commenced. This will add another crucial "piece of the puzzle" to research on human evolution in East Asia. Approved by China's National Cultural Heritage Administration, this excavation is jointly conducted by the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Anhui Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology. It is scheduled to run from September to late November, covering an area of 85 square meters.

The Hualongdong Site, located in Dongzhi County, is one of the earliest known ancient human sites in East Asia demonstrating evolution towards Homo sapiens (modern humans). The current excavation focuses on the stratigraphic deposits west of Fossil Locality No. 1 at the site. Team members will comprehensively collect fossil specimens, stone tools, and their spatial positional data.

It is understood that the archaeological team has already begun washing, screening, and recording finds in the fossil cleaning area on the eastern side of the site. Large concretions and unearthed fossils are being transported to the Hualongdong Site Museum for further cleaning and study. To enhance fossil restoration and conservation capabilities, a new fossil preparation laboratory has been established within the museum. Outfitted with high-precision microscopes, specialized pneumatic pens, and other dedicated equipment, it enables fine repair and reinforcement of even tiny fossil fragments, providing timely and professional protective treatment for the precious fossil specimens unearthed during this campaign.

Within less than a week since the excavation began, previously unseen fossils of small mammals have already been discovered. Several relatively complete skulls of spotted deer, large porcupine skulls and wild boar mandibles have been restored from cemented blocks.

Since its first excavation in 2006, the Hualongdong Site has yielded remains representing 20 individuals belonging to an ancient human population, over 19,000 animal fossils, and more than 400 stone artefacts made and used by early humans showing signs of wear. An academic symposium held at the end of last year confirmed that Hualongdong humans represents the earliest ancient humans in East Asia evolving towards Homo sapiens (modern humans). Their existence dates back to between 331,000 and 275,000 years ago.

The Dongzhi County Culture and Tourism Department stated they will fully cooperate with the field archaeological work, providing logistical support to ensure the scientific, standardized, and safe conduct of the excavation.

Source: Anhui Daily