Something Positive: Bird Droppings Powered the Rise of this Little-Known Coastal Kingdom, Archaeologists Find | A Sign of Progress

Something Positive: Bird Droppings Powered the Rise of this Little-Known Coastal Kingdom, Archaeologists Find | A Sign of Progress

Why this story matters: This piece offers a constructive counterpoint to the constant stream of negative news. Quick summary: This story highlights recent developments related to marine life, showing how constructive action can lead to meaningful results. The Islas Ballestas off the coast of the Chincha and Pisco valleys remain an important location for many seabird species, as well as seals and other marine animals. Birds today are less abundant than they were in the past, leading to decreased guano accumulation compared to earlier eras – credit, Jo Osborn New archaeological evidence reveals that seabird guano—nutrient-rich bird droppings—may have the driver of behind the prosperity of the most influential pre‑Incan societies. In ancient Andean cultures, fertilizer was power, said archaeologist Dr. Jacob Bongers, whose findings highlight the unexpectedly powerful role bird droppings played in shaping ancient societies in the Andes. Farming on Peru’s coast is challenging, as it is one of t…