German archaeologists from the University of Tübingen have discovered the first direct evidence that Neanderthals hunted cave lions. This was indicated by damage to bones found in Bavaria, about 50 thousand years old. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Scientific Reports.
Cave lions were Eurasia’s most dangerous predators during the Middle Paleolithic era (200 thousand to 40 thousand years ago), until they became extinct at the end of the Ice Age about 11 thousand years ago. The height of the animal at the withers reached 130 centimeters. Cave lions hunted large herbivores such as mammoths, bison, and horses, and also attacked cave bears.
Until recently, it was believed that there was no cultural interaction with this animal until the emergence of Homo sapiens.
During a detailed examination, scientists found a characteristic mark on one of the ribs of the predator, which was described as a mark resulting from a blow from a wooden spear. Further examination of the remains showed that the ancient ancestors of modern humans not only ate lion meat, but also preserved its skin in claws, possibly as a valuable trophy.
The role of cave lions is consistent with evidence of more complex behavior among Neanderthals. It may even have laid the foundation for the later cultural development of Homo sapiens. According to the representative of the scientific project, Thomas Terberger, the attitude towards lions as a symbol of power and might that has survived to this day dates back to ancient times, when Neanderthals fought with these formidable predators.
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