The Homotherium Finds from Schoeningen 13 II-4: Man and Big Cats of the Ice Age

The first remains of European sabre-toothed cats were discovered in 2012 in Germany, and a two-day scientific workshop was held in 2015 to discuss their extinction, comparisons to extant big cats, and their relationship to past humans. This volume presents an overview of this crucial topic for human development and coexistence with big cats.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 26 April 2022
Publisher: Schnell & Steiner GmbH, Verlag

The discovery of the first remains of European sabre-toothed cats in 2012 at Schöningen, Lower Saxony, Germany, marked a significant milestone in our understanding of prehistoric wildlife. This remarkable site, where humanity's oldest wooden weapons were also found, shed light on the existence of these iconic predators. In response to this discovery, a two-day scientific workshop titled "The Homotherium finds from Schöningen 13II-4 and big cats of the Ice Age" was held in 2015. This volume, based on the lectures presented at the workshop, provides an overview of the European sabre-toothed cat and its significance in human development.

Sabre-toothed cats, also known as Smilodon, were apex predators that roamed the Earth during the Ice Age. These massive cats were equipped with sharp, serrated teeth and formidable claws, making them formidable hunters. The discovery of their remains at Schöningen has provided valuable insights into their behavior, diet, and interactions with other species.

One of the most intriguing aspects of sabre-toothed cats is their extinction. While the exact reasons for their demise are still debated, it is believed that climate change, habitat loss, and competition with other predators played a significant role. The decline of sabre-toothed cats coincided with the end of the Ice Age, which marked a significant shift in the Earth's ecosystem.

In comparison to their modern counterparts, such as lions and tigers, sabre-toothed cats were smaller and more specialized. They had shorter legs and a longer body, which allowed them to move quickly and efficiently through their habitat. Their teeth were also adapted for hunting large prey, such as mammoths and woolly rhinos.

Sabre-toothed cats had a complex relationship with past humans. While they were often perceived as dangerous predators, they may have also played a role in human survival. Some researchers suggest that early humans may have scavenged the remains of sabre-toothed cats, or even hunted them as a source of food.

The discovery of the first remains of European sabre-toothed cats at Schöningen has opened up a new window into our prehistoric past. It has helped us to better understand the evolution of big cats and their role in shaping the Earth's ecosystem. This volume provides a comprehensive overview of the European sabre-toothed cat and its significance in human history and culture.

In conclusion, the discovery of the first remains of European sabre-toothed cats at Schöningen has revolutionized our understanding of prehistoric wildlife. This iconic predator's existence has shed light on the complex relationships between humans and other species and has helped us to better appreciate the rich tapestry of our planet's past.

Weight: 1113g
Dimension: 300 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783884673393