Excavation Reveals 'Major' Ancient Migration to Timor Island
Excavation Reveals 'Major' Ancient Migration to Timor Island
Reassessing Early Human Routes to Australia Through Timor Island
Archaeologists have uncovered a pivotal chapter in human migration history with the discovery of thousands of stone artifacts and animal bones at the Laili rock shelter in Timor Island. This find challenges existing theories about the route early humans took to reach Australia and sheds light on their sophisticated maritime capabilities.
Unveiling Timor's Archaeological Treasure Trove
In a collaborative effort involving researchers from The Australian National University (ANU), Flinders University, University College London (UCL), and the ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage, the Laili rock shelter in central-north Timor-Leste has emerged as a crucial site for understanding early human colonization in Southeast Asia.
Dr. Shimona Kealy from ANU College of Asia and the Pacific highlights the significance of the site's deep sediments, which reveal a human "arrival signature" dating back approximately 44,000 years ago. This marks the earliest evidence of human presence on Timor Island, suggesting that the region was previously uninhabited.
Reevaluating Migration Routes
Previously, Timor Island was considered a stepping stone for early humans migrating from mainland Southeast Asia to Australia and New Guinea. However, Professor Sue O'Connor, also from ANU, notes that the absence of human occupation on Timor Island before 50,000 years ago challenges this assumption. This discovery supports the hypothesis that early humans likely used New Guinea rather than Timor as a primary route to reach Sahul (the combined landmass of Australia, New Guinea, and surrounding islands).
"This provides further evidence to suggest early humans were making the crossing to Australia using the stepping stone island of New Guinea,"
Professor O'Connor explains, emphasizing the dynamic nature of early human migration through Wallacea (the series of islands between Asia and Australia).
Archaeological Insights from Laili Rock Shelter
Associate Professor Mike Morley, from Flinders University, analyzed sediment samples from Laili, revealing a clear transition from sporadic human presence to intensive activity upon human arrival. The site exhibits evidence of burning and extensive use of the shelter floor, indicating intensive human occupation and adaptation strategies.
The excavation yielded numerous small stone tools and charred fish bones, suggesting a subsistence strategy centered around marine resources and small game. Dr. Kealy speculates on the use of these finely crafted tools for tasks such as basket weaving and woodworking, reflecting the adaptability and resourcefulness of early inhabitants.
Significance of the Migration
The sheer volume of artifacts unearthed at Laili rock shelter underscores the magnitude of this ancient migration event. Dr. Kealy emphasizes that the migration to Timor Island was not accidental but rather a deliberate colonization effort facilitated by advanced maritime technology and navigational skills.
"This was a major colonisation effort, evident through the sheer number of people who were making the journey,"
Dr. Kealy asserts, highlighting the competence and confidence early humans had in navigating challenging maritime environments.
Conclusion: A Glimpse into Ancient Maritime Capabilities
The discovery at Laili rock shelter reshapes our understanding of early human migration in Southeast Asia, emphasizing the role of Timor Island in the broader context of human colonization of Sahul. By challenging existing paradigms, this research paves the way for further exploration into the adaptive strategies and technological advancements of our ancestors.
Published in Nature Communications1 and led by Dr. Ceri Shipton from UCL, this collaborative study represents a significant advancement in the field of archaeology, highlighting the interdisciplinary efforts required to unravel the complexities of human history and migration patterns.
Ceri Shipton, Mike W. Morley, Shimona Kealy, Kasih Norman, Clara Boulanger, Stuart Hawkins, Mirani Litster, Caitlin Withnell, Sue O’Connor. Abrupt onset of intensive human occupation 44,000 years ago on the threshold of Sahul. Nature Communications, 2024; 15 (1) DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48395-x