The Widespread Exploitation of Straight-Tusked Elephants by Neanderthals

Archaeologists from MONREPOS, the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz and Leiden University have recently learned that around 125,000 years ago, Neanderthals hunted straight-tusked elephants

Archaeologists have unveiled groundbreaking discoveries shedding light on the behavior of Neanderthals, revealing their involvement in hunting and butchering straight-tusked elephants (Palaeoloxodon antiquus) during the Pleistocene period. This revelation, stemming from the collaborative efforts of MONREPOS, the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, and Leiden University, delineates a significant facet of Neanderthal subsistence strategies dating back around 125,000 years ago.

Reconstructed life appearance of the straight-tusked elephant (Palaeoloxodon antiquus) in (top) side and (bottom) frontal view, based on remains uncovered from the Neumark-Nord 1 site in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. Image credit: Hsu Shu-yu.

Archaeological Revelations

At the core of this groundbreaking revelation lies an intriguing archaeological find in northern Europe, notably the Neumark-Nord site. Here, meticulous analysis revealed a pattern of extensive straight-tusked elephant exploitation, with a particular focus on adult males. This butchering activity, distinguished by its scale and precision, stands unparalleled in the archaeological records, marking a pivotal moment in understanding Neanderthal behaviors.