Hong Kong has officially uncovered its first dinosaur fossils, unearthed on the remote Port Island, adding an exciting chapter to the regionโs ancient history. Estimated to date back to the Cretaceous period, at least 66 million years ago, these remains offer a rare glimpse into prehistoric life in an area not previously known for dinosaur discoveries.
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Experts from the Chinese Academy of Sciences made the discovery during field research, identifying the fossils as likely belonging to either a Sauropod (long-necked, four-legged dinosaur) โ or an Ornithischian (a herbivore with bird-like pelvises). Preliminary theories suggest that the dinosaur may have been swept away by floodwaters before being buried under layers of sand and sediment, only to resurface millions of years later on Port Island. Although further analysis is required to confirm the exact species, this groundbreaking find marks a monumental moment for local palaeontology.
Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn hailed the discovery as ‘an important breakthrough’ for Hong Kong, highlighting its potential to open new doors for paleontological research in the region. To advance these efforts, the Hong Kong government has signed a new partnership with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, marking the Port Island fossils as the first major project under this initiative.
For those eager to explore this prehistoric find, the fossils will be on display at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre starting tomorrow (25 October, 2024). However, Port Island itself is now off-limits to the public to preserve the site for further research. Visitors are encouraged to admire the fossils at the exhibition โ any trespassing on the island could result in a HKD$2,000 fine or up to three months in jail.
This extraordinary discovery adds a fascinating new layer to Hong Kongโs narrative, showing that the cityโs history extends far beyond its bustling streets and iconic skyline. It offers a rare opportunity to connect with a long-lost chapter of the regionโs past โ one that stretches millions of years back to a time when colossal creatures roamed the earth.
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