Importance Score: 72 / 100 π΄
Rare Palaeolithic Canine Remains Unearthed in France Shed Light on Early Human-Animal Bonds
Archaeologists have announced the discovery of an exceptionally scarce, 16,000-year-old dog skeleton in southern France. This remarkable find provides compelling evidence suggesting that humans in the Stone Age era formed caring relationships with domesticated animals. However, analysis also indicates the animal likely met its end at the hands of people.
Ancient Dog Skeleton Found in French Cave
According to Loukas Koungoulos, a researcher at the University of Western Australia, who was not involved in the skeleton’s examination, “It is plausible that the injuries sustained by this animal were a result of beatings or blows inflicted by humans.”
Discovery Details
The ancient canine specimen was unearthed in 2021 within the Baume Traucade cave, located in France. A group of cave explorers made the initial discovery during an expedition.