Ancient Toolmakers: Homo Sapiens Were Not Alone

Archaeologists have discovered evidence of Neanderthals making bone tools at a site in France, adding to the growing body of evidence that suggests other human variants besides Homo sapiens also made tools from animal bones. The research, published in PLOS ONE, found a collection of bone tools at the La Quina site, including retouchers, beveled tools, retouched artifacts, and a smooth-ended rib. The diversity of bone tools suggests a range of activities beyond butchering. The authors believe that the bone tools found in Siberia and France were made by Neanderthals, not early sapiens, based on DNA analysis and the absence of modern human remains in the context. This evidence sheds new light on Middle Paleolithic subsistence strategies and the resourcefulness of prehistoric hominins.