On September 17, 2025, Peruvian palaeontologists shared a major discovery: a 12-million-year-old porpoise fossil found near the country’s Pacific coast. The fossil, which is 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) long, turned up in July in the Ocucaje desert, about 350 kilometres (217 miles) south of Lima. This rare find from the Miocene age could teach us more about ancient sea life.
Palaeontologist Mario Urbina found the fossil in the Pisco region, famous for its many marine fossils. The team showed the specimen at the Geological, Mining, and Metallurgical Institute in Lima. Because it is so well preserved, scientists can study how the porpoise moved, swam, and what it ate. They can also learn about how long it lived. The Miocene era, which lasted from 5 to 23 million years ago, had many unique sea animals like this early porpoise.
Exhiben en Perú fósil de especie singular delfín de hace 12 millones de años
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— La Razón Digital (@LaRazon_Bolivia) September 18, 2025This fossil’s excellent condition gives scientists a rare chance to look at prehistoric ocean life. “How it moved, how it swam, what it ate and for how long it lived,” explained palaeontologist Mario Gamarra. The Pisco site has already given scientists many well-preserved fossils, including rare whales, dolphins, and sharks, making Ocucaje a favourite for fossil hunters.
This discovery puts Peru in the spotlight for palaeontology and shows links between today’s porpoises and those from the distant past. It also highlights why we should protect places rich in fossils like Ocucaje. Scientists think this fossil could give new clues about ancient sea animals and how porpoises developed over time.
Peru’s ancient porpoise fossil is a rare find. Researchers now have the chance to learn exciting new facts about the creatures that lived in the seas millions of years ago.
