Can Archaeozoology and Taphonomy contribute to knowledge of the feeding habits of the Iberian wolf?

摘要

The feeding behaviour of the Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) has usually been studied using traditional methods, such as the analysis of scats or stomach contents of dead individuals. Such studies usually analyze the hair: mainly feathers and occasionally a few bones. In the present work, a study of skeletal remains found in current wolf scats from 7 natural areas on the Iberian Peninsula is presented. Methods of archaeozoological and taphonomic research are applied in the study of this sample. Data concerning the type of prey-species, the body size, MNI, age groups and skeletal representation of prey consumed and defecated are provided. In addition, some data relating to the physical and biochemical modifications produced by consumption and digestion are provided. This type of study is suitable for the analysis of the current faecal remains in order to complement other studies on the feeding habits of the Iberian wolf where traditional methods are used. However, some considerations must be taken into account in future studies.