“Nineteenth Century Fossil Collections from the Foothills of the Himalaya (Siwalik Hills)”

BY Dr Christopher Stimpson (Oxford University, Museum of Natural History)

Abstract: The aim of this talk is to provide an accessible introduction and a brief history of the collection of Pliocene-to-Pleistocene fossils from the foothills of the Himalaya, also known as the ‘Siwaliks’ or ‘Siwalik Hills’. I will first consider the context and the practices of collecting during the 19th century before giving a concise survey of some of the remarkable fauna that the fossils have revealed. Special attention will be given to specimens from the collections held by the National Museum of Ireland, highlighting their particular significance. The talk will conclude with a discussion of priorities and challenges for future research on the fossils of the Siwalik Hills.

Date and Time: TUESDAY 28th February 2023, between 19:00 pm and 20:00 via Zoom.