Archaic exploitation of small mammals and birds in Northern Chile

Abstract

The employment in modern archaeological excavations of such intensive collection techniques as sifting the site matrix through fine screens or separating the excavated material in flotation devices results in the recovery of faunal samples that include large fractions of rodent and bird bone. The presence of these taxa, often previously unrecognized as a part of the ancient cultural environment, forces zooarchaeologists to enlarge their interpretive procedures to accomodate the particular problems these species present. The samples reported here, from 15 sites in Northern Chile are illustrative cases. Most were excavated by Prof. Lautaro Núñez of the Universidad del Norte in Antofagasta, while a few were dug by Dr. Gordon Pollard of SUNY Plattsburgh.