Scientists in South America came across huge underground tunnels, the origin of which is not connected with people or known geological processes. Their research showed that only giant animals that died out about 8-10 thousand years ago could dig such structures.
Geology professor Henry Frank first noticed an unusual opening on a hillside in the Rio Grande do Sul region (Brazil) and later studied its interior. The passage, about 4.5 meters long, ended with giant claw marks on the ceiling, which immediately ruled out human involvement.
According to the scientist, such tunnels have a circular or elliptical cross-section, branches, and height differences, and could not have been formed by natural geological processes or the actions of modern animals.
Research has shown that they were created by prehistoric sloths — creatures the size of which is comparable to an African elephant. These giants were capable of digging long tunnels up to 600 meters long, some of which have already been documented by researchers. In total, more than 1,500 similar burrows were counted in the region.
Additional evidence indicates that ancient sloths interacted with humans: fossilized footprints in Utah show the hunt and pursuit of these powerful animals. Scientists note that their strength and sharp claws made sloths dangerous opponents in close combat.
These discoveries give a unique insight into the fauna of South America and its interaction with ancient people, and also reveal mysterious underground structures left by long-extinct giant animals.
