Large bovids on the Neanderthal menu: Exploitation of Bison priscus and Bos primigenius in northeastern Italy

In northern Italy, Fumane Cave (Lessini Mountains -Verona), San Bernardino Cave, and De Nadale Cave (Berici Hills - Vicenza) provide important data to interpret the exploitation dynamics of Pleistocene’s large bovids Bos primigenius and Bison priscus between 70-42 Ky BP. Through the taphonomic study of bone surfaces, we have attempted to reconstruct the strategies, methods, and practices of butchery in the exploitation of this game adopted by different cultural groups of Middle Palaeolithic hunters. Therefore, Neanderthal hunting behaviour has been examined using different proxies such as the choice of anatomical parts, selective transport of elements, prey selection, and age estimation. Data suggest bovines were an important alimentary resource in some cases, even if they were not the most exploited taxon, at least in the Italian peninsula. Results disclose additional aspects of the Neanderthals’ use of landscape and hunting strategies.