Two Australian locations hold the key to twenty million years of mammalian evolutionary history.

Countries & Cities · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Riversleigh and Naracoorte are not just fossil sites; they are windows into a deep past. Recognized as two of the ten most significant fossil locations globally, these Australian sites provide an unparalleled record of how mammals evolved and adapted to shifting climates over the last twenty million years of Earth's history.

The Australian Fossil Mammal Sites, a combined UNESCO World Heritage listing, encompass two distinct regions that offer a comprehensive look at the Cenozoic Era. Riversleigh, located in Queensland, and Naracoorte, situated in South Australia, were officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1994. Their inclusion was based on their outstanding universal value, highlighting the exceptional diversity and pristine preservation of the fossilized remains found within their boundaries.

These sites serve as a critical archive for understanding the biological trajectory of Australian mammals. The fossils at Riversleigh and Naracoorte document the evolutionary development of these creatures across a vast timeline spanning two decades of millions of years. This record is particularly vital for observing how marsupials specifically navigated and adapted to the significant climate fluctuations that occurred throughout the last 170,000 years. By studying these remains, researchers can piece together the complex story of survival and change in a changing environment.

Beyond their global recognition, these locations hold immense national significance. On 21 May 2007, the sites were added to the Australian National Heritage List, cementing their status as a collective area of outstanding value for the nation. The combination of these two sites provides a unique perspective on the continent's biological heritage, offering scientists and historians a rare opportunity to examine the long-term patterns of life in Australia. Their preservation ensures that the record of mammalian evolution remains accessible for future generations to analyze and appreciate the resilience of these species.

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