Early Neanderthals hunted ibex on steep mountain slopes

image via New Scientist

September 11, 2025, 4:00 PM

• •Neanderthals adapted to hunting ibex in the hills of Eastern Europe.
• •They used fire to extract marrow and grease from bones.
• •The organized cave layout indicates specialized task zones.
• •Findings demonstrate the Neanderthals' remarkable cognitive flexibility and adaptability.

New evidence from a Serbian cave reveals that Neanderthals were hunting mountain goats nearly 300,000 years ago, showcasing their adaptability. These early humans skillfully hunted ibex in challenging terrains, processing the animals in organized camps. They utilized tools, fire, and specialized hunting strategies, demonstrating impressive cognitive abilities. This discovery challenges previous assumptions, highlighting the Neanderthals' intelligence, social organization, and early experimentation with advanced techniques.

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