Richard Leakey quotes

Richard Leakey, a renowned paleoanthropologist, conservationist, and author, has left an indelible mark on the world. Born on December 19, 1944, in Nairobi, Kenya, he became a leading figure in the study of human evolution. Leakey's groundbreaking discoveries in the Koobi Fora region of Kenya's Lake Turkana Basin unearthed numerous early hominin fossils, reshaping our understanding of human origins. Alongside his achievements in paleontology, Leakey played a crucial role in wildlife conservation, founding Kenya Wildlife Service to combat poaching and save endangered species. As an influential voice in environmental activism, Leakey has consistently championed efforts to protect ecosystems and combat climate change. His numerous books, including "Origins" and "The Sixth Extinction," have drawn widespread acclaim for their compelling storytelling and scientific expertise. Richard Leakey's tireless dedication to unlocking the mysteries of human evolution and preserving Earth's natural heritage continues to inspire generations to take up the mantle of conservation.

We are concerned that, in a few years time, this place of discovery, with its wealth of human fossils, the like of which can be found nowhere else in the world, could be completely destroyed.

- Richard Leakey

Whether or not all this came to pass in an East African ditch, I wouldn't like to say. Perhaps it happened in North Africa or further west, but Africa was definitely the place.

- Richard Leakey

A number of scientists with greatly different backgrounds can come up with completely different assessments. The discussions or controversies are endless. Once a year, we try to bring the most important discoverers together to exchange their experiences and knowledge.

- Richard Leakey

Sadly, I am not able to take part in the fieldwork myself so much anymore, as both of my legs were amputated following an airplane crash twelve years ago.

- Richard Leakey

We think that groups of between 30 and 40 early men would have settled in an area measuring a hundred square kilometers.

- Richard Leakey

The elephants were being slaughtered in masses. Some were even killed in the vicinity of big tourist hotels.

- Richard Leakey