Researchers have found the world’s oldest Ostrich nest, dating back to 41,000 years, in Andhra Pradesh.
The nest was discovered while archaeologists from a Vadodara University and experts from Germany, Australia and the US were investigating a fossil-rich site in Andhra Praderdsh’s Prakasam.
The nest, a massive structure containing 911 ostrich eggs, offers unparalleled insights into the behavior and habitat of these ancient megafaunal birds, the researchers said,Â
Typically measuring between 9 to 10 feet in width, such nests were capable of holding anywhere from 30 to 40 eggs at a time.Â
“This finding represents a crucial moment in comprehending the extinction of megafaunal species in India,” said Devara Anil Kumar, Assistant Professor at MSU’s Department of Archaeology and Ancient History in Vadodara/
“The discovery of nearly 3,500 fragments of ostrich eggshells within a confined area of 1×1.5 meters not only validates the historical presence of ostriches in Southern India but also establishes the existence of the oldest known ostrich nest in the world,” he added.