Was it domesticated too? The remains of a lynx were found next to dogs in an ancient Roman burial
April 19, 13:30 Share:
This unique find is surprising and interesting because it is the only one of its kind in Europe. (Photo: pixabay)
Archaeologists in Hungary have discovered something surprising in a Roman-era burial: a complete skeleton of a Eurasian lynx surrounded by the remains of four dogs..
Read also:
Unusual pet. Archaeologists have found the remains of a domestic fox in Argentina
This unique find is surprising and interesting, since it is the only one of its kind in Europe.
The Eurasian lynx, a species of wild cat, is distinguished by its tufted ears, short tail and large paws.. Currently, this species is becoming increasingly rare in Europe due to human activity and hunting, leading to the threat of extinction.
The lack of references to lynxes in archaeological finds is due to the fact that they have always avoided contact with people. Therefore, the discovery of their remains during archaeological excavations is extremely rare.. This context greatly enhances the value of a complete lynx skeleton found in a Roman-era pit at Zamárdi Kutvelgyi Dulo, Hungary, about 1,500 years ago.
Read also:
Who are the owners? Three burials of noble Romans discovered in Portugal
In a hole 1.4 meters deep they found the remains of one lynx and four dogs, approximately the size of modern German shepherds.. Researchers from the HUN-REN Institute of Archeology in Hungary and Stockholm University note that the arrangement of the remains indicates that they were carefully laid out for some purpose.
The significance of this find remains a mystery. There are no signs of skinning on the remains of the lynx, which rules out hunting for fur.. Perhaps the lynx was killed in pest control or due to a fight with dogs, or was even a pet. The absence of ritual symbols or other materials in the pit does not provide a clear answer to the nature of this burial.