Burgess Shale Formation

The Burgess Shale Formation, located in the Canadian Rockies, is a famous fossil site dating back to about 505 million years ago during the Cambrian period. It is renowned for its well-preserved fossils of early marine life, showcasing a diverse array of organisms, including many that are ancestral to modern animals. The unique preservation allows scientists to study the evolution of complex life forms. Discovered in 1909, the site has provided invaluable insights into the development of ecosystems and the history of life on Earth. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its scientific significance.