Hominin reactions to herbivore distribution in the Lower Palaeolithic of the Southern Levant

摘要: Abstract We explore the relationship between edaphic potential of soils and mineral properties underlying geology as a means mapping differential productivity different areas Pleistocene landscape for large herbivores. These factors strongly control health grazing animals irrespective particular types vegetation growing on them, but they have generally been neglected in palaeoanthropological studies favour more general emphasis water vegetation, which provide an incomplete picture. Taking Carmel–Galilee–Golan region example, we show how understanding provides insight into might exploited environment. In order to simplify analysis, concentrate Lower Palaeolithic period very that dominate archaeofaunal assemblages this period. Topography ability retain also contribute accessibility regions patterns seasonal movements animals, are essential ensure supply healthy fodder throughout year, especially such elephants, require substantial good browsing. Other migrating groups similar needs. The complex topography Southern Levant with frequent sudden severe changes gradient, wide variety landforms including rocky outcrops, cliffs, gorges, ridges, places major limits these movements. develop methods variables, based our field experience, create framework variation can be compared locations contents archaeological sites suggest ways early hominins used variable features target animal prey, extend analysis consideration smaller mammals were intensively after disappearance elephants. consider some regional-scale approach further tested refined, advocate development contribution wider pattern hominin dispersal.