Exploring the composition and management of early Neolithic cattle herds in the western Mediterranean: The cattle herd from La Draga (Banyoles, Spain)

• For the first time, the composition of one of the earliest cattle herds from the Neolithic is described in a comprehensive way for the Mediterranean area in relation to the use made of the animals and their productive exploitation. • The estimated herd size is approximately 22 animals of various ages, predominantly consisting of adult individuals. The proportion of males in the herd varies between 20% and 40%, including castrated males, while adult females constitute approximately 60% of the herd. The presence of neonates is also documented. • Osteon characteristics, including size and density, indicate potential uses of cattle such as milk production and labor force. • Cattle were used for the transportation of wood for house construction, and considers the potential use of both male and female animals for different activities. For 60 years, the cattle herd at La Draga was crucial in supplying wood and constructing houses. • The community efficiently managed the herd for occasional transport while controlling reproduction and dairy production, indicating long-term planning for sustainable and diversified use of the herd. Animal husbandry was an important economic strategy for early Neolithic communities. Sheep were among the first animals to be reared and were of significant importance in the Mediterranean area. Cattle also played a crucial role in some open-air sites, such as the settlement of La Draga in the north-eastern Iberian Peninsula. The settlement was occupied successively, dating from 5300-4700 BCE. By analysing the cattle remains, including taphonomic conditions, age and sex estimation, and biometric and microstructural analysis, we can characterise the composition characteristics of one of the earliest cattle herds in the Western Mediterranean. This takes into account both the demographic and productive structure. The results reveal a high level of expertise in managing this species and demonstrate intensive but multi-purpose use, with a significant neonatal mortality rate.