Ancient dinosaur footprints in Puebla reveal a lost prehistoric world

Dinosaur footprints discovered in southern Puebla reveal a thriving prehistoric landscape over 120 million years ago. The tracks, found across three key sites, suggest the region was once a bustling corridor for multiple species during the Early Cretaceous period. Researchers have identified footprints from large herbivores, predators, and even flying reptiles.

Specialists from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) uncovered the footprints after receiving reports from local residents. The sites—Santa Ana Xaloxtoc in Tehuacán, Santa Catarina Tehuixtla in Atexcal, and San Lucas Teteletitlán in Atexcal—each contain between five and twenty prints. These are spread across areas of 200 to 300 square metres, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient biodiversity.

The footprints belong to Iguanodontidae, long-necked sauropods, allosaurid-type theropods, and what may be pterosaurs. Their presence confirms that a warm sea once covered much of Puebla, supported by marine remains found in Atexcal and San Juan Raya. This prehistoric shoreline likely attracted diverse species, leaving behind the tracks preserved today. Visitors can now explore these sites through ecotourism tours. While some footprints are accessible to touch, experts advise against it to prevent erosion and damage. The discoveries highlight Puebla’s significance as a fossil-rich area, connecting modern observers with a distant past.

The findings provide concrete evidence of Puebla’s role as a hub for prehistoric life. With footprints from multiple dinosaur groups, the region’s geological history is now clearer. Ecotourism efforts ensure these ancient traces remain visible for future study and public interest.