Fauna
Mammal · GBIF taxon 4827564

Homo erectus

Homo erectus

Also known as Java Man, Peking Man, Upright Man

Homo erectus was a groundbreaking Pleistocene hominin that pioneered long-distance bipedal running and humanlike body proportions. Bands forged sophisticated Acheulean handaxes, learned to control fire for warmth and cooking, and organized cooperative hunts across diverse landscapes. Their remarkable behavioral flexibility enabled them to become the first hominins to migrate extensively out of Africa into Eurasia.

Fossil HomininPleistocene
Homo erectus reference
—observations
—countries
—peak records
ExtinctConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXExtinctRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
  • Pleistocene ungulates
  • Underground tubers
  • Small mammals and reptiles
Predators
  • Giant hyena (Pachycrocuta brevirostris)
  • Sabertooth cat (Megantereon cultridens)
  • Pleistocene leopard (Panthera pardus)
ThreatsPleistocene climate shifts, habitat fragmentation, volcanic events
HabitatsSavannas, open woodlands, scrublands, temperate river valleys
Life spanRoughly 30–45 years
  1. FamilyHominidae
  2. SpeciesHomo erectus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Extinct species known only from fossil material and archaeological artifacts.
Responsible observation
  • Museum Viewing: Examine fossil casts and tool assemblages behind protective museum displays.
  • Field Archaeology: Leave suspected in-situ Pleistocene artifacts undisturbed and notify paleontologists.
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