© 2026 NPR Illinois
For your right to be curious.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Build a transformational philanthropy program for this trusted NPR affiliate.
Seeking a 100% major gift fundraiser passionate about public media to develop relationships with people who support an informed and civil central Illinois.
Hire will have community visibility, many prospects, and professional resources.
Interviews in progress, open until filled. Apply now.

Researchers Dig In To How Early Humans Thrived At High Altitudes

(Courtesy of Randy Haas)
(Courtesy of Randy Haas)

A summer hike up to a 13,000-foot alpine meadow can be exhilarating. However the lack of oxygen, frigid temperatures and sparse vegetation would make long-term survival difficult. Archaeologists know hunter-gatherers traversed highland areas thousands of years ago, but presumed they had to spend most of their time in lowland areas.

But now that idea is being challenged by a team of researchers at the University of Wyoming. Wyoming Public Radio’s Tennessee Watson (@tennesseejane) reports.

Copyright 2021 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.