Wulanhua Rhinoceros Fossil Cluster and Its Site

A cluster of rhinoceros fossils dating back 8 million to 5 million years was unearthed at a brick factory 3 kilometers south of Wulanhua Town. Appraised by experts, all the fossils belong to Chilotherium, forming a rare fossil-bearing stratum of this species across China.

The fossils are embedded in red mudstone layers 5 meters beneath the ground surface. Preliminary surveys confirm that the fossils are densely distributed in fluvial paleostrata stretching around 30 meters long and 5 meters wide. The fossil belt runs in a southeast-northwest orientation, with an exposed area of approximately 150 square meters. Remains of more than 20 individual rhinoceroses have been uncovered, including 20 rhinoceros skulls as well as spinal columns and limb bones.

Preserved within their original sedimentary layers, these complete rhinoceros skeletons retain their natural burial state at the time of death, whether crisscrossed or stacked layer upon layer. These precious fossils provide vital scientific evidence for research into the morphological structure, geographic distribution, paleogeography and paleoclimate of Chilotherium.