Shell middens on our coast are ancient heaps of shells and other debris left by early coastal communities, primarily the San and Khoikhoi peoples. These middens, found along the Eastern Cape shoreline, date back thousands of years—some as early as 10,000 years ago—providing evidence of human habitation and subsistence. They were created as people gathered and consumed shellfish, leaving the shells in piles that accumulated over generations. These sites are often located near rocky shores and estuaries, where shellfish were abundant. Archaeologists study these middens to understand how early humans lived, what they ate, and how they interacted with their environment over time. 

To spot a midden here are some key things to look out for: 

1. Unusual Shell Concentrations: Look for dense patches or mounds of shell fragments (often mussel, oyster, or limpet) that seem too concentrated or layered to be natural. 
2. Location: Middens are often found slightly inland from the high tide line, on dune edges, cliffs, or low hills overlooking the sea—places where ancient people had good access to both the ocean and shelter. 
3. Dark Soil or Ash Layers: Many middens contain layers of dark soil, charcoal, or ash, indicating ancient fires or cooking areas. 
4. Bone or Tool Fragments: You might spot animal bones, stone flakes, or broken tools mixed in with the shells, pointing to human activity. 
5. Erosion Exposure: Coastal erosion can reveal midden layers in cliff faces or along paths. Look for horizontal bands of shell and debris exposed in the earth. 

Always remember not to disturb or remove anything—middens are protected heritage sites in South Africa and hold great archaeological significance.