DNA has been recovered from fossil remains of humans and and their relatives, including dozens of Neanderthals, Denisovans, and so-called "Hobbits" (Homo floresiensis). Obstacles include breakdown and (or) contamination of fossil material with contemporary DNA, human or otherwise. One method is to use dental equipment to extract tissue from teeth.

    aDNA has also been used to explore the ancestry of Beothuk Newfoundlanders.