An upsurge of molten rock many million years ago reached the earth's surface and spread out into a solid layer. That layer split into rectangular blocks through the development of vertical and horizontal cracks. Erosion wore away edges in the ensuing millions of years, gradually rounding the corners and so creating the marble shapes.
Traditions of the Warumungu, Alyawarre and Kaytetye aboriginal mythology consider the Devils Marbles to be eggs of the rainbow serpent, among other "dreamtime" stories. The aboriginals believe damaging the Devils Marbles can have life-threatening consequences.
The Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve covers approximately 4,453 acres and consists of marbles in numerous configurations.
Shady, moist areas create habitat for bottle-shaped Fairy Martin swallows and small spiny-tailed Goanna lizards which can be spotted in crevices or under overhangs around the marble formations, according to the Natural Resources, Environment, The Arts and Sport Department of the Northern Territory Government of Australia.
Within the Reserve there is a network of trails. To appreciate the size of the marbles you can climb some of the bigger piles easily. The Devils Marbles are considered most photogenic at sunset.
