Archaeologists conducted experiments using rhino teeth as tools to understand Neanderthal behavior, finding that wear patterns on ancient rhino teeth match those created when using them as hammers for stone tool production. This suggests Neanderthals may have repurposed rhino teeth as tools, expanding our understanding of their resourcefulness. The study provides new insights into the diverse materials Neanderthals incorporated into their toolkits.
Background
Experimental archaeology involves recreating ancient techniques and processes to better understand how prehistoric peoples lived and worked. Neanderthals are known to have used various materials for tool-making, but the specific use of rhino teeth as hammers represents a novel discovery about their technological capabilities.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Jun 3, 2026 at 03:54 AM
- Score
- 5.0 / 10