Insights into neanderthal bird hunting practices during MIS5-3: Taphonomical analysis of avian remains from Valdegoba cave (Burgos, Spain)

• The avian assemblage from Valdegoba cave corresponds to a mixed contribution of both human and non-human predators. • Valdegoba cave shows bird proccesing by Neanderthal groups. • Hunting and processing of small prey are a significant aspect of Neanderthal behaviour. Small-prey exploitation has been considered an important component of socio-economic development of past human groups. Consequently, several studies have set the focus on taphonomical analysis of small animals such as birds or leporids. Nevertheless, human groups are not the only agents that can produce bone accumulations, as archaeological assemblages can also be the result of non-human predators and natural phenomena. For this reason, it is essential to determine the taphonomical pattern of each potential accumulator, with the aim of identifying their inputs. This work presents the first taphonomical analysis of an avian sample from Valdegoba Cave. The assemblage shows a mixed origin of both human and non-human (probably a nocturnal bird of prey) predator contributions. Clear evidence of human processing − such as the presence of cut marks − demonstrates intentional bird processing. Neanderthal groups from Valdegoba therefore show a broad spectrum diet, from large herbivores to small animals. These findings position Valdegoba cave as a unique Mousterian site in the region, thereby expanding the understanding of Neanderthal behaviour and small-prey use.