Neanderthals displayed distinct butchery styles in Northern Israel

A new study reveals how Neanderthals in Israel developed unique butchery techniques.

Neanderthals in northern Israel showed distinct butchery methods

Research from Hebrew University and London’s Natural History Museum studied butchered bones from two Neanderthal groups living in northern Israel 50,000 to 60,000 years ago. The Kebara Cave group mainly hunted larger animals like wild cattle, while the Amud Caves group appeared to favor smaller game. Though close in proximity, these groups exhibited notable differences in their butchery techniques, suggesting cultural learning and variations in practices. The study's focus was on cut marks left on bones, revealing more chaotic markings from the Amud group, possibly indicating learned behaviors.

The findings from this research highlight the complexity of Neanderthal life and challenge previous perceptions of them as purely instinct-driven hunters. This indicates that early human societies had cultural traditions that influenced their survival strategies. Annal Zalon, a lead researcher, suggests these distinct butchery methods could be akin to cultural fingerprints. If true, this shifts the understanding of Neanderthal social structures and their capacity for learning and sharing techniques within their communities, emphasizing that their ways of life were shaped by more than just the need for resources.

Highlights

Further research could unravel more about Neanderthal social customs.