Hunting for survival: Archaeozoological and taphonomic evidence for hunting practices at Vlakno Cave in the Terminal Pleistocene, eastern Adriatic

Abstract

Vlakno Cave, located in the central part of the eastern Adriatic, preserves an undisturbed Palaeolithic and Mesolithic sequence. Excavations revealed a rich faunal assemblage dating to the Late Upper Palaeolithic. Given the geomorphological sensitivity of the Adriatic region to climatic and environmental fluctuations, this study investigates hunting strategies during the final phase of the Upper Palaeolithic. Through archaeozoological and taphonomic analyses, we examined prey selection across Strata 5 and 4, transport decisions, and the exploitation of carcasses. The results indicate that red deer remained the principal prey in both strata, while the younger stratum shows an increase in small mammals (fox, hare) and a decline in larger herbivores (equids, bovids). Age profiles suggest a greater representation of juvenile individuals among both deer and small mammals. Skeletal part representation indicates that while all major body portions are present, large game was likely introduced to the site as partial carcasses rather than whole animals. This interpretation is supported by cut-mark evidence consistent with dismemberment, whereas smaller prey appear to have been transported intact. Cut marks and burning traces indicate hide removal, meat processing, and thermal treatment, with additional signs of secondary burning. This study contributes to a better understanding of hunting strategies in a climatically dynamic period, within a landscape that was in the process of becoming insular.