A neo-taphonomic approach to human campsites modified by carnivores

Identifier:  imarina:6251152

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/imarina6251152

Authors:  Arilla, Maite; Rosell, Jordi; Blasco, Ruth

Abstract:
© 2020, The Author(s). Skeletal profiles at archaeological bone assemblages can bear little resemblance to original hominin discarded bone elements. Resulting patterns might originate from different taphonomic problems, such as hominin-carnivore activities in alternate visits, and lead to interpretation issues. In this paper, we present a study of predepositional scattering activities caused by small-sized carnivores on simulated short-term hominin campsites. Their disrupting actions affect skeletal element survival considerably and, to a lesser extent, the spatial distribution of hearth-related assemblages. The results of this study demonstrate that small-sized carnivores might cause as much disruption as large-sized ones. Thus, being able to recognize these taphonomic processes and their consequences is critical when discerning between human and non-human behaviour.