Ferocious Foes: Neandertals Tamed Cave Lions Over 48,000 Years Ago
Oct 13, 2023
Around 48,000 years ago, Neandertals in Germany showcased their hunting prowess by effectively bringing down a cave lion using a wooden spear, according to recent research.
Around 48,000 years ago, Neandertals in Germany showcased their hunting prowess by effectively bringing down a cave lion using a wooden spear, according to recent research.
This revelation represents the earliest concrete evidence of hominids hunting formidable predators and stands as the initial direct confirmation of Neandertals participating in the hunting of cave lions. Zooarchaeologist Gabriele Russo and her team documented these findings in a report published in Scientific Reports on October 12. They also propose that this behavior likely commenced even earlier among Neandertals.
In addition to this discovery, the researchers examined three cave lion paw bones from a separate site in Germany, with origins dating back to approximately 190,000 years ago. These bones, uncovered in 2019, appear to have been part of a cave lion's pelt, which Neandertals removed following a successful lion hunt. These paw bones were found closely grouped together, with one displaying clear markings consistent with skinning. There is no evidence to suggest that these paw bones were utilized for ornamental or clothing purposes.
Russo emphasized that these lion pelts, complete with claws, could have held various meanings for Neandertals. They might have served as special clothing for warmth, for significant events, or as displays of their achievements. The researchers also identified a puncture wound on one of the cave lion's ribs, which was excavated in 1985. This wound bore a striking resemblance to marks made by wooden spears. It suggests that hunters approached the lion, likely an old male, from behind and thrust a spear into its lower abdomen while it rested on its right side. Moreover, evidence of stone tool marks on other skeletal parts confirmed that the hunters had successfully butchered the animal.
