HOMO HEIDELBERGENSIS

Homo heidelbergesis, also known as Heidelberg Man. A descendant of Homo erectus who reached the colder climes of Europe, about 700,000 years ago, was Homo heidelbergensis. This hominid is thought to have evolved from Homo erectus in Africa – where his remains were initially referred to as Homo rhodesiensis – before venturing into Europe.

It’s possible that H. heidelbergensis trekked east into Asia – based on a skull found in China – but most remains show them spreading north and west into the colder regions of Europe and Great Britain, thanks in part to their stocky build.

Homo heidelbergensis was a skilled hunter – he made spears to kill large game such as horses and elephants – and was the first to build simple shelters.