Taphonomic analysis of small mammal bone remains preyed upon by wildcats (Carnivora: Felidae) from the central Monte Desert (Mendoza, Argentina)

Abstract

The present study analysed the taphonomic characteristics of small mammal bone accumulations produced bysmall felids in an area from the central Monte Desert (Mendoza, Argentina). In order to provide criteria to identifythe role that these predators had in the formation of zooarchaeological assemblages, the anatomical representation,bone breakage patterns and degrees of digestive corrosion were evaluated. The main taphonomic resultsare: low average values for the relative abundance of skeletal elements; greater representation of mandibles, maxillae,isolated incisors, humeri and femora than the remaining elements; preponderance of cranial elements withhigh proportion of isolated teeth; elevated frequencies of proximal limb bones compared with distal parts; highdegree of breakage in all skeletal elements and digestive corrosion on almost all diagnostic bones (mainly moderateand heavy). The values of the studied taphonomic variables indicate that small felids in this area made severealterations to the bones of their prey (mainly rodents), attributable to the category of extreme modifier, while preservingenough skeletal elements to allow their taphonomic characterization. Tooth marks or grooves on bonesurfaces produced by scratching and chewing were not detected. The low relative abundance of skeletal elements,the high degree of breakage and the elevated frequency of elements with digestion traces represent general taphonomicpatterns that fall within those reported for other South American small carnivores.