Neanderthals Conquered Treacherous Slopes to Hunt Ibex in Ancient Eastern Europe

The Mountain Hunters: Unveiling the Skilled Neanderthals of Eastern Europe Imagine standing at the edge of a steep mountain slope, gazing out at the rugged terrain where ibex roam freely. The wind whispers through the trees, and the sound of distant hooves echoes through the valley below. This is the world that early Neanderthals inhabited nearly 300,000 years ago, where they adapted to their environment in ways previously unknown. In a groundbreaking discovery, archaeologists have unearthed evidence of Neanderthal hunting camps on steep mountain slopes in Eastern Europe. The findings reveal a sophisticated and resourceful species that not only survived but thrived in the harsh, unforgiving landscape. By studying these ancient hunters, we gain insight into the lives of our long-lost cousins and the remarkable skills they possessed. A New Frontier: Hunting Ibex on Vertical Cliffs Neanderthals were known for their expertise in hunting large game in Western Europe's flat meadows and forests. However, the discovery in Eastern Europe shows that they had adapted to a new environment by targeting ibex, which inhabit steep mountain slopes. This approach was "completely different" from their usual tactics, according to Stefan Milošević at the University of Belgrade in Serbia. "We now see that early Neanderthals who had barely differentiated themselves anthropologically as a species were already exploiting ecological niches that no hominin had ever exploited before," Milošević explains. This remarkable ability to adapt and innovate allowed them to thrive in areas previously thought inhospitable to human habitation. A Window into the Past: The Cave of Discovery The discovery was made at an approximately 290,000-year-old cave site in Eastern Europe. Archaeologists found evidence of Neanderthal remains, including bones and tools, which revealed a well-organized hunting camp. The ibex were skinned and butchered on-site before being processed for their marrow and grease. "This is a game-changer," says Marie-Hélène Moncel at France's National Museum of Natural History in Paris, who was not involved in the study. "Finding clues that fill in gaps in the Neanderthal timeline, habitat, and culture is critical to our understanding of human evolution." Implications for Society: What Can We Learn from Our Ancient Cousins? The discovery of Neanderthal hunting camps on steep mountain slopes offers a unique opportunity to learn about human adaptability and resilience. As we face the challenges of climate change, deforestation, and habitat destruction, studying the lives of our ancient cousins can provide valuable insights. "We can learn from their ability to adapt to new environments and exploit ecological niches," says Milošević. "This knowledge can inform our own strategies for mitigating the effects of environmental degradation." Conclusion: A New Chapter in Human History The discovery of Neanderthal hunting camps on steep mountain slopes is a testament to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of our ancient cousins. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of human evolution, we are reminded that even in the most inhospitable environments, humans have always found ways to thrive. This remarkable find opens a new chapter in human history, one that highlights the adaptability and resilience of early Neanderthals. By studying their lives and strategies, we can gain a deeper understanding of our own place within the natural world and the importance of preserving our planet's precious ecosystems. *Based on reporting by Newscientist.*