Fatal wound may be earliest evidence of a Neanderthal killed with a spear
Archaeologists have discovered a 75,000-year-old Neanderthal skeleton, Shanidar A, which may provide the earliest evidence of a fatal spear wound. The findings also suggest complex social behaviors, including burial practices and familial care.
Why it matters
This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about the cognitive and social capabilities of Neanderthals, providing new insights into human evolution.
The Neanderthal remains had a surprisingly circular hole caused around the time of death. ( Supplied: University of Cambridge )
Researchers uncover Neanderthal remains they suggest show the oldest known evidence of a fatal blow with a wooden spear.
They also say the remains, known as Shanidar A, may show evidence of burial practices and familial care.
But an independent expert says, although the findings are "interesting", more research is needed to support the study's conclusions.
Link copied Share Share article An oddly circular hole in a Neanderthal's shoulder bone may be the oldest known evidence of an ancient human fatally wounded with a wooden spear.
That's according to research published today in Scientific Reports .
The UK and Spanish team also found evidence of burial and caregiving behaviour in the species.
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