In Devon, an extraordinary discovery of Ice Age ‘megafauna’ has been unearthed, shedding light on the creatures that once roamed the area during the Late Pleistocene period.

Among the remarkable findings are woolly mammoths, rhinos, hyenas, horses, hares, red foxes, reindeer, and wolves, dating back up to 60,000 years. The excavation site near Sherford Quarry has provided researchers with a unique glimpse into the past, offering insights into the diverse ecosystems and food chains that thrived in Ice Age Britain.

The specimens, all from the Middle Devensian era, hint at a time when the climate was considerably colder than it is today. The remains, including mammoth tusks, rhinoceros teeth, and wolf skulls, have been meticulously analyzed to piece together the prehistoric landscape of the region.

The presence of these large, extinct animals suggests a vastly different environment than what exists today, with glaciers nearby in South Wales and a climate prone to significant floods.

Historic England chief executive Duncan Wilson expressed admiration for the findings, emphasizing their importance in understanding the ancient fauna of Britain. The research, initiated by the Sherford Consortium prior to development activities, has been ongoing since 2015, marking a collaborative effort between developers and archaeologists to uncover and preserve these significant remnants of the past.

The discovery has been hailed as a momentous occasion of national significance, with lead archaeologist Rob Bourn of Orion Heritage describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all involved. The cooperation between developers and researchers has been instrumental in unearthing these treasures, which are expected to be entrusted to The Box, a museum in Plymouth, for safekeeping and further study.

The excavations at Sherford New Town, a burgeoning community on the outskirts of Plymouth, have revealed a rich tapestry of ancient life that once populated the region. Through careful analysis of the recovered remains, scientists hope to reconstruct the lost world of Ice Age Britain, offering valuable insights into the plant species, animal interactions, and environmental conditions of that distant era.