A Large Number of Animal Skulls Were Found in Neanderthal Cave

A Large Number of Animal Skulls Were Found in Neanderthal Cave

Steppe bison cranium from Level 3.
Steppe bison cranium from Level 3. Credit: Nature Human Behaviour (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41562-022-01503-7

A team of researchers has made an interesting discovery in a Neanderthal cave in southwestern France. They have found several large animal skulls, including those of a bear, a lion, and a hyena, all of which are much larger than the animals typically hunted by Neanderthals. The skulls were discovered in an area of the cave that was likely used for food storage and processing.

Insights into Neanderthal Behavior and Diet

The discovery of these large animal skulls is significant because it provides new insights into the behavior and diet of Neanderthals. The researchers believe that the skulls were used for a variety of purposes, including as tools for making tools and as decorative items. The presence of these large animal skulls in the cave suggests that Neanderthals had a more diverse diet than previously thought and were capable of hunting larger animals.

In addition, the researchers found evidence of cut marks on the skulls, indicating that they had been processed in some way. The cut marks suggest that the Neanderthals may have used the skulls to extract bone marrow, which is a rich source of nutrients. Overall, this discovery sheds light on the complex relationship between these ancient humans and the animals in their environment.

Read the original article on PHYS.

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