Faunal Deposits in Pre-Beaker Funerary Contexts at Humanejos (Parla, Madrid, Spain)

This study presents the first zooarchaeological analysis of the faunal remains associated with the pre-Beaker funerary contexts of Humanejos (Parla, Madrid, Spain). A total of 3974 animal remains recovered from 31 burial pits were analysed. Species representation was assessed using the NISP and MNI, and bone surface modifications were examined to evaluate human activities. The results indicate that domestic taxa account for 84% of the total MNI and that the faunal remains occur in two distinct types of assemblages. The first consists of complete or nearly complete articulated animals intentionally deposited within the graves, including bovine skulls and the interment of dogs, pigs, and caprines. The second comprises disarticulated faunal remains representing one or several individuals, with no apparent anatomical association, and is interpreted as refuse or pit-fill material. This assemblage exhibits greater taxonomic diversity, with caprines predominating, and provides evidence of carcass processing and consumption, as indicated by cut marks. The differences between these assemblages offer new insights into the role of animals in pre-Beaker funerary practices at Humanejos and contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between funerary rituals, animal management, and daily life in Copper Age central Iberia.