Exploring the composition and management of early Neolithic cattle herds in the western Mediterranean: The cattle herd from La Draga (Banyoles, Spain)

Animal husbandry was an important economic strategy for early Neolithic communities. Sheep were among the first animals to be reared and were of significant importance in the Mediterranean area. Cattle also played a crucial role in some open-air sites, such as the settlement of La Draga in the north-eastern Iberian Peninsula. The settlement was occupied successively, dating from 5300-4700 BCE. By analysing the cattle remains, including taphonomic conditions, age and sex estimation, and biometric and microstructural analysis, we can characterise the composition characteristics of one of the earliest cattle herds in the Western Mediterranean. This takes into account both the demographic and productive structure. The results reveal a high level of expertise in managing this species and demonstrate intensive but multi-purpose use, with a significant neonatal mortality rate.