Ancient Neanderthal had spear wound

Archaeologists have identified a wound caused by a spear on the scapula of a Neanderthal who lived about 75,000 years ago. This could be the oldest known evidence of a fatal injury from a wooden spear in the fossil records of hominins.

Spear wound found in Iraqi Kurdistan

The wound was discovered in the Shanidar Cave in Iraqi Kurdistan, under nearly eight meters of rock and sediment. The fossil, named Shanidar A, was approximately 45 years old at the time of death and was found in a layer dating back about 75,000 years.

Perforation suggests wooden spear

The perforation in the scapula was about 15 mm in diameter and was caused by a weapon with a rounded tip. A spear with a flint or stone tip would have left a flat or angular hole. Researchers believe the injury was fatal and could have been caused by a hunting accident or a deliberately aimed blow.

Neanderthal had multiple injuries

Alongside the scapula injury, other remains were found, including a nearly complete right hand, two left ribs, a fragment of a right rib, and seven teeth. Some of these injuries suggest the individual suffered a significant facial trauma, likely affecting their ability to eat and speak.

Evidence of care for injured Neanderthal

The broken tooth showed signs of tartar, indicating it remained in the mouth for a long time after the injury. This suggests the individual may have required a soft diet and support from others to survive. The evidence points to possible compassion and social support among Neanderthals.

Neanderthals buried their dead intentionally

Previous excavations in the same area of the Shanidar Cave had uncovered several individuals. With the discovery of Shanidar A, the minimum number of individuals identified in this group reaches five. This suggests Neanderthals may have intentionally deposited their dead in this location, a practice that is unusual in Neanderthal archaeological records.

Study highlights Neanderthal compassion

Emma Pomeroy, lead author of the study published in Scientific Reports, notes the repeated presence of human remains in the area. The remains of Shanidar A reflect both a violent end and evidence of care, suggesting Neanderthals may have shown compassion and social support to injured individuals.