Researchers search for more Naumann's elephant fossils at Hokkaido site

MAKUBETSU, Hokkaido -- A team of researchers is excavating a fossil site in Churui district of northern Japan's Makubetsu town in search of more Naumann's elephant remains for the 2026 fiscal year. The focus of the excavation is around the stratum where a nearly complete skeleton of the species was discovered in 2024. The Naumann's elephant, known for its long tusks, was a creature that roamed Japan during the Ice Age.

Prior to the 2024 discovery, a tooth fossil was found in 1969 when farm road construction took place at the site, and a full excavation revealed skeletal remains the following year. Despite the significant findings, scientists believe there are still many fossils, including skull and backbone fossils, buried beneath the ground. The Makubetsu Municipal Board of Education has been conducting annual surveys since 2019.

In October 2024, a Naumann's elephant skull fossil was unearthed, marking the first such discovery in 54 years. This year, researchers are concentrating on the 2024 discovery site and nearby areas, led by curator Yuji Soeda of the Churui Museum of Naumann's Elephant and Hiroshi Sawamura, a former director of the Ashoro Museum of Paleontology.

The excavation site is open to the public, with events like hands-on fossil footprint excavations held on October 24 and 25. The local lodging plan, which includes an excavation experience, sold out quickly. Soeda expressed hope for further discoveries and highlighted the potential for the excavation to contribute to regional revitalization efforts.

For inquiries regarding the public viewing and other excavation-related matters, contact the Churui Museum of Naumann's Elephant at 01558-8-2826.