Fig. 2.

Estimated dates for the human–chimpanzee divergence and early fossil hominins. Divergence dates are generally consistent across studies and loci. Most studies date the split within 4–8 million years ago. Purported early fossil hominins fall at the early end of this range. Given here are recent and oft-cited estimates. For a review of the 20+ studies reporting hominoid divergence dates see Steiper & Young (2006). ¹Haile Selassie et al. (2004); ²Senut et al. (2001); ³Brunet et al. (2002, 2005). *Given to level of precision reported in original publication, rounded to nearest 0.1 million years. ^Robust statistics –modelled using variable rates of evolution, multiple calibration points, likelihood and/or Bayesian analyses.