Sex-ratio et stratégies de chasse au Paléolithique : l'apport de l'analyse des mélanges

In zooarchaeological studies, it is often important to be able to assess sexual dimorphism and sex ratios in populations. A modern statistical approach to handle this problem is Mixture Analysis. It consists of determining how many groups are present in the sample, two in this case, in which proportions they occur, and estimating the parameters accordingly. The analysis of mouflon bones from Arago cave (Tautavel, France) indicates that there are more females than males in the F-layer. According to the ethology of this animal, this suggests a selective hunting strategy. Thereby, we conclude that Homo erectus was present on the site during spring and summer periods.