Neolithic Cow Tooth Links Stonehenge Stones to Wales

Rapid Summary

• Archaeologists from University College London and other institutions analyzed the molar tooth of a cow (Bos taurus) discovered at stonehenge.
• The cow’s right mandible was unearthed in 1924 from Stonehenge’s Stage 1 ditch, constructed between 2995-2900 BCE.
• Isotope analysis dated the tooth to between 3350-2920 BCE, with data suggesting its origin in Wales, near the Preseli Hills where Stonehenge’s bluestones also originated.
• Isotopes of carbon, oxygen, strontium, and lead tracked seasonal dietary and environmental changes during six months of the cow’s life.

– Seasonal changes in diet indicated movement or imported fodder.
– The lead isotopes suggested remobilization during pregnancy stress and confirmed the cow was female using peptide-based sex determination techniques.

• Researchers posit that cattle might have been used to transport stones from Wales to Salisbury Plain (Stonehenge site).
• Findings underscore Wales’ meaning in Stonehenge’s history while offering intricate details about prehistoric animal management.

Source published on June 17, 2025, in Journal of Archaeological Science.

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Indian Opinion Analysis

This groundbreaking study strengthens connections between south-west Wales and Salisbury Plain by revealing early animal movement tied to one of humanity’s most enigmatic monuments. Such research highlights advanced logistical capabilities and deliberate planning over vast distances more than 5,000 years ago. For Indian audiences interested in ancient civilizations like their own Indus Valley Civilization-renowned for its urban planning-the findings create parallels around human innovation linked with natural resources.

Moreover, this research showcases how technological advancements continue reshaping our understanding of ancient systems like resource transportation-critical knowledge for examining correlations across global prehistoric societies.