Stone tool changes and megafauna extinctions in South Africa at 12,800-year boundary. Three megafauna species went extinct approximately 12,800 years ago in South Africa: giant buffalo (Pelorovis), Megalotragus (large beast), and Equus capensis (large zebra) Stone tool technology changed from Robberg to Albany/Oakhurst industry around 12,941 plus or minus years ago at Nelson Bay Cave and Boomplaas sites Last recorded occurrence of Pelorovis buffalo is at the top of the Robberg unit dated approximately 12,941 plus or minus years
Around 12,800 years ago in South Africa, three megafauna species vanished: giant buffalo (Pelorovis), Megalotragus, and Equus capensis. Stone tools shifted from Robberg to Albany/Oakhurst industry at ~12,941 ± years at Nelson Bay Cave and Boomplaas, mirroring the Clovis-to-Folsom transition seen in North America.
Key Facts
- Three megafauna species went extinct approximately 12,800 years ago in South Africa: giant buffalo (Pelorovis), Megalotragus (large beast), and Equus capensis (large zebra)
- Stone tool technology changed from Robberg to Albany/Oakhurst industry around 12,941 plus or minus years ago at Nelson Bay Cave and Boomplaas sites
- Last recorded occurrence of Pelorovis buffalo is at the top of the Robberg unit dated approximately 12,941 plus or minus years
- Cultural change in South Africa is considered analogous to Clovis-to-Folsom transition in North America at approximately 12,800 years ago
Related site: Nelson Bay Cave — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: The Younger Dryas Impact Evidence Has Reached Africa by The Cosmic Summit