This linear concentration of animal bone (Feature 9) is thought to represent a purposeful disposal episode - perhaps a narrow erosional gully filled with discarded bone fragments left over from butchering and cooking. Most of the bones were broken while fresh and/or have cut marks - obvious signs of butchering - and some of the bones are burned. Black 1986: Figure 19.
The bones represent diverse species and habitats. Six species - bison, javelina, turtle, three different kinds of rodents, and deer or antelope - were identified and these animals are associated with the creek, woodlands, prairie and brushy habitats, all of which were within easy walking distance of the Hinojosa site.
Click to see larger views and details.
Close Window