Pilauco Bajo

The Pilauco site in Osorno, Southern Chile, is an important paleontological and archaeological location dating back to the Upper Paleolithic. It features a unique blend of human-made lithic artifacts and remains of megafauna, such as gomphotheres, indicating human activity in the late Pleistocene between 16,400 and 12,800 years ago. The artifacts, primarily made of volcanic rock like dacite and rhyolite, were transported to the site by humans, as local rivers did not carry these materials. The site has also been associated with the controversial Younger Dryas impact hypothesis. Excavations have uncovered a wealth of ecofacts, including bones, teeth, and seeds, providing critical insights into the environment and biodiversity of the period. Pilauco stands as a testament to the complex interactions between early humans and their changing ecosystems.