Preliminary results on the quantification and taphonomic analysis of the Zoo Park (Windhoek, Namibia) Proboscidean remains

Abstract

Landscaping work at Zoo Park (Windhoek, Namibia) in 1961/1962 revealed a Holocene open-air site containing proboscidean remains (Loxodonta spp.) associated with quartz stone artefacts. Zoo Park has been cited in various publications as a butchery site with various authors differing on the number of the elephants found at the site. To verify these claims, a taphonomic analysis and quantification of the elephant remains was carried out.
The study is ongoing. The preliminary results have documented two elephants and taphonomic analysis suggests possible human exploitation of the remains. The study shows that the exploitation of elephants for subsistence at Zoo Park was likely the result of butchering related to scavenging activities.