Ancient North Americans are increasingly being viewed as skilled mammoth hunters, according to a recent study published in Science Advances. The debate among archaeologists regarding whether the Clovis people, who lived approximately 13,000 years ago, had the capability to hunt megafauna has been ongoing. However, new chemical analysis of their diet now suggests that mammoths were a significant part of their food source.

The analysis, conducted by a team of researchers led by archaeologist James Chatters of McMaster University, focused on the remains of an 18-month-old Clovis individual known as Anzick-1, found in Montana. By examining specific isotopes of carbon and nitrogen present in the bones, the researchers were able to determine that mammoths made up 35 to 40 percent of the individual’s diet. Other animals such as elk, bison, and camel contributed much less, while small mammals accounted for only 4 percent.

The findings provide direct evidence that the Clovis people likely relied on mammoths as a primary food source, supporting the hypothesis that they were skilled megafauna hunters. The isotopic values reflected in Anzick-1’s bones suggested a diet consistent with that of his mother, indicating a broader dietary pattern among the Clovis population in western North America.

According to coauthor Ben Potter, an archaeologist at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the presence of mammoth in the Clovis individual’s remains indicates a cultural tradition rather than just a one-time occurrence. However, some researchers remain cautious about drawing definitive conclusions from a single skeleton. Anthropologist Vance Holliday of the University of Arizona notes that while the evidence is significant, more human remains would be needed to confirm the broader dietary patterns of the Clovis people.

Overall, the new study sheds light on the dietary habits of the Clovis people and their potential role as experienced mammoth hunters. The analysis of isotopic values in ancient remains offers valuable insights into the lifestyles and behaviors of early North American populations.