Researchers examining ancient DNA have narrowed down the timeline of early human migration into North America - shedding light on a question that's puzzled scientists for decades.

The study, published online ahead of its appearance in the December 2026 issue of the journal Current Opinion in Genetics & Development, looked at previously published genetic and archaeological evidence to better understand when humans first arrived in the Americas.

Genetic evidence most strongly supports humans reaching the Americas between 14,000 and 20,000 years ago, the study suggests - with an arrival before 15,000 years ago considered likely.