The recent discovery of ancient bones at Wogan Cavern, sparked by a family holiday, has the potential to rewrite Britain's prehistory. This find, made by archaeologist John Bolton, is particularly fascinating for several reasons. Firstly, the cave's lack of previous excavation makes it a unique and valuable site. Bolton's initial interest in the 11th-century Pembroke Castle led him to uncover a calcite floor, suggesting minimal disturbance of any potential archaeological findings. This piqued his curiosity, and he eventually convinced Dr. Rob Dinnis from the University of Aberdeen to explore the cavern further.
The subsequent excavations revealed a treasure trove of evidence, including the bones of a hippopotamus that roamed Wales 120,000 years ago. This discovery is significant because it provides insight into the animal species that existed during various climatic variations and how humans responded to these changes. The presence of these ancient remains at the site is a record dating back before the last Ice Age, which is scientifically important.
Dr. Jonquil Mogg of Pembroke Castle Trust expressed her awe at the intact state of the findings, stating that it is 'completely mind-blowing'. She believes that this discovery could unlock a deeper understanding of Britain's prehistory and provide valuable insights for other sites. The University of Aberdeen will now lead a five-year exploration project, which could reveal a great deal about our early prehistoric forebears.
What makes this discovery particularly intriguing is the potential for DNA analysis from the bones and sediment. This could provide information about the species present at the site and their activities, as well as the timing of these events. The fact that such information has been preserved is rare and unique.
However, the story of Wogan Cavern is not just about the discovery of ancient bones. It also highlights the importance of serendipity in archaeological research. Bolton's chance visit to the cavern led to a significant find, which could have been overlooked otherwise. This raises a deeper question about the role of chance in scientific discovery and the value of exploring seemingly insignificant sites.
In my opinion, this discovery is a testament to the power of curiosity and persistence in archaeological research. It also underscores the importance of preserving and exploring our natural and cultural heritage. The finds from Wogan Cavern will be curated and kept in Pembroke, ensuring that the collection is accessible to the people of Pembroke, Wales, and beyond. This discovery is a reminder that there is still much to learn about our past, and that the most significant findings can often be made by accident.
