280 Million-Year-Old Fossils Found in Italian Alps

Claudia Steffensen, while hiking in the Italian Alps, discovered fossilized footprints from the Permian period, dating back over 280 million years, which have been exposed by melting snow. This discovery, made in the Valtellina Orobie mountain range, reveals an ancient ecosystem with footprints of large reptiles and amphibians, predating dinosaurs. The site, meticulously analyzed by paleontologists, shows exceptional preservation of fossils, including plant imprints and tracks of various species. Researchers highlight the historical significance of the find, drawing parallels between ancient extinction events and contemporary climate change. As the ice recedes, more fossils continue to emerge, providing insights into how prehistoric life adapted to environmental changes. This underscores the urgency to understand and address today's climate challenges.