Scientists Recreate Neanderthal Bird Cooking Techniques

New experiments reveal the challenges and archaeological implications of ancient food preparation methods.

Researchers used flint flakes to butcher and cook wild birds, mimicking Neanderthal techniques.
Cooking methods included both raw butchering and roasting over coals, each leaving distinct marks on bones.
Roasting made meat easier to access but caused bones to become brittle and less likely to survive over time.
The study created a database of cut marks and bone damage to compare with archaeological findings.
Scientists call for further research with more species to better understand Neanderthal diets and practices.