What did the study of bones in the Goyet caves reveal about Neanderthals?

The study revealed evidence of cannibalism, suggesting Neanderthal children and women were consumed.

Who were the likely victims of cannibalism in the Goyet caves?

The victims were at least six Neanderthal children and young women from outside the local area.

Were early Homo sapiens or Neanderthals the cannibals at Goyet caves?

While uncertain, researchers suggest the cannibals were likely other Neanderthals, though Homo sapiens cannot be entirely ruled out.

Home / Science / Neanderthal Children Feasted On 45,000 Years Ago

Neanderthal Children Feasted On 45,000 Years Ago

1 Jan

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Summary

Bones in Belgian cave show children and women were cooked and eaten.
Cannibalism victims likely came from outside groups, indicating exocannibalism.
Neanderthals or early Homo sapiens may have been the perpetrators.

Neanderthal Children Feasted On 45,000 Years Ago

Evidence from Belgium's Goyet caves suggests early humans may have engaged in cannibalism involving Neanderthal children and women around 45,000 years ago. Researchers analyzed bones indicating that at least six individuals, comprising young females and children, were likely cooked and consumed. These victims appear to have originated from outside the immediate area, pointing to a practice of exocannibalism.

The demographic profile of the victims—women and children without adult males—suggests deliberate targeting. This behavior mirrors that seen in chimpanzees for territorial control or weakening rival populations. Scientists are exploring whether the perpetrators were other Neanderthal groups or early Homo sapiens, though evidence leans towards Neanderthal conflict.

This grim discovery sheds light on potential inter-group tensions during the late Middle Paleolithic period, a time of Neanderthal decline and Homo sapiens expansion. While direct evidence of Homo sapiens in the region at that exact time is limited, their presence elsewhere suggests possible interaction or conflict. The findings contribute to understanding the complex dynamics of human evolution and survival.