A bird's eye view of the Middle Palaeolithic: Avian Fossil Remains and Their Contribution to Neanderthal research in Eurasia

Neanderthals demonstrated sophisticated hunting strategies, including the targeted exploitation of gamebirds and wetland species for subsistence, contradicting earlier assumptions about their cognitive limitations. A multi-site analysis of avian fossil remains from Gorham's Cave (Gibraltar), Devil’s Tower Rockshelter (Gibraltar), Cova Negra (Spain), Scladina Cave (Belgium), and Tabun Cave (Israel) revealed consistent dietary patterns across Eurasia, with Neanderthals efficiently focusing on specific taxa. Ecological and taphonomic methods applied to these remains also indicated that Neanderthals occupied a stable bioclimatic niche regardless of geographical location, further supporting their adaptability and ecological knowledge.

Amos, L. (2023). A bird's eye view of the Middle Palaeolithic: Avian Fossil Remains and Their Contribution to Neanderthal research in Eurasia. Liverpool John Moores University. https://doi.org/10.24377/LJMU.T.00015514