Archaeologists in Brazil have uncovered evidence of ancient South Americans being influenced by fossilized dinosaur tracks, leading them to create intricate figures in the rock formations. The site, located in eastern Brazil in the state of Paraíba, features petroglyphs that bear resemblance to the dinosaur tracks left by theropods, sauropods, and iguanodontians tens of millions of years ago. These petroglyphs, primarily consisting of circular patterns and tridactyl dinosaur track-like figures, were detailed in a research article published in Scientific Reports.
Despite the lack of direct dating, the discovery of human burials dating back 10,000 years near the site suggests a wide timeframe for the creation of the petroglyphs. The researchers noted that the similarities between the ancient tracks and the petroglyphs demonstrate an active engagement with the fossil material by the ancient community. The petroglyphs’ placement and design reflect inspiration drawn from the much older dinosaur trackways, revealing a connection to the ancient past.
Theropods, sauropods, and iguanodontians were prominent dinosaur species present in the area, with theropods being bipedal carnivores, sauropods recognized for their massive bodies and long necks, and iguanodontians including the well-known Iguanodon and hadrosaurs. The intricate petroglyphs found near the fossilized tracks suggest a deep cultural significance and integration of knowledge among the ancient South American community.
Further research is needed to determine the exact age of the petroglyphs, potentially through techniques like X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy. The nearby Junco archaeological site also features petroglyphs depicting various geometric figures, indicating a diverse range of artistic expressions within the region’s ancient populations. Despite some damage to the figures and trackways due to flaking of the rock, the intricate designs continue to offer insights into the lives and beliefs of ancient South Americans.
It is speculated that the petroglyph makers may have mistaken the dinosaur trackways for modern theropod dinosaur footprints, such as those left by rheas, the largest birds in Brazil. These ancient artworks alongside the fossilized tracks illustrate the significance of the petroglyphs to the local community. The enduring presence of the dinosaur tracks in the rock formations further solidifies their cultural importance and connection to the past, offering a unique glimpse into the relationship between ancient South Americans and the prehistoric creatures that once roamed their lands.