Recent genetic evidence found in New Guinea suggests the Denisovans survived much later than previously thought. In fact, they may have interbred with the region’s cannibal tribes.

In the untamed landscapes of Island Southeast Asia, scientists investigating the mysterious a group of hominins called the Denisovans have stumbled upon a revelation that challenges conventional timelines.

Deep within the tribal heartland of New Guinea, where traditions of headhunting and elaborate ceremonies once thrived, there are signs that the enigmatic Denisovans may have persisted much later than previously believed. The tale weaves through the narrative of Michael Rockefeller, the adventurous scion whose disappearance in the 1960s fueled legends of encounters with cannibalistic tribes. Yet, beneath the surface of these myths lies a genetic story unveiled by modern research.

The DNA of the indigenous Papuans reveals unexpected complexities in Denisovan ancestry, suggesting multiple populations and interbreeding events, some as recent as 15,000 to 30,000 years ago. This discovery challenges the notion of Denisovans as a homogenous group, portraying them instead as a diverse and enduring lineage that may have mingled with modern humans in the remote mountains of New Guinea. The genetic tapestry hints at adaptability and resilience, echoing the remarkable ability of Homo sapiens to navigate and interweave their existence with even the most secluded corners of our planet.