Khaizuran RashidBig news for history buffs and dinosaur enthusiasts! On Oct 23, Hong Kong made headlines with the discovery of its very first dinosaur bone fossil on Port Island, a stunning spot within the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. And guess what? That was just the beginning. On Dec 11, experts uncovered 30 more rocks containing dinosaur bone fossils on the island!
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If you’re wondering how these fossils ended up here, scientists have an idea. Preliminary analysis suggests the bones belonged to a large dinosaur from the Cretaceous period (145 to 66 million years ago). They believe the dinosaur was buried by sand and gravel after its death, likely carried to the area by a massive flood before being reburied at the site. Talk about an incredible journey through time!
The Story Behind the Excavation
Image credit: TK HKGP via Wikimedia Commons
The Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department (AFCD) had its suspicions about Port Island as far back as March 2024. They flagged the sedimentary rocks there as potential fossil sites, prompting the Antiquities and Monuments Office (AMO) to investigate further.
Fast forward to June, when experts from the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Vertebrate Palaeontology and Paleoanthropology (what a mouthful!) joined the effort. From June to August, they carried out detailed fieldwork, collecting fossil specimens, discussing preservation strategies, and planning the next steps.
By Dec 11, the excavation wrapped up with an astonishing find: 30 rocks were found containing fossilised dinosaur bones! These remains, like the first fossil, are believed to date back to the Cretaceous period. Now, researchers hope to piece together Hong Kong’s ancient past, one bone at a time.
Where Can You See These Fossils?
Image credit: Antiquities and Monuments Office | Official Website
Curious to get a closer look? The first dinosaur fossil went on display at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui just two days after its discovery. Starting Dec 20, you can also marvel at the 30 newly discovered fossils at the same venue.
But there’s more! Visitors can watch experts meticulously preparing these specimens and learn about other fascinating finds, like fossils of aquatic organisms and ancient ferns. Plus, the AMO and AFCD are hosting lectures and palaeontology workshops to spark public interest. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or just looking for something unique to do, we do think this exhibition is worth your time!
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This groundbreaking find isn’t just a win for science – It’s also a glimpse into Hong Kong’s prehistoric story. So whether you’re a local or just visiting, this is your chance to witness history in the making. Head to the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre to see these remarkable fossils and dive into the fascinating world of palaeontology. Who knows, this could be the start of many more exciting discoveries in Hong Kong!
Featured image credit: Antiquities and Monuments Office | Official Website
