Neanderthals Were Probably Maggot-Munchers, Not Hyper-Carnivores

Neanderthals were probably maggot-munchers, not hyper-carnivores

It has been claimed Neanderthals ate a huge amount of meat based on isotope ratios in their bones – but the explanation could instead be a diet rich in maggots

Neanderthals were not ‘hypercarnivores’ and feasted on maggots, scientists say

Researchers believe humans’ closest relatives may have stored meat from their kills for months before eating itFor hungry Neanderthals, there was more on the menu than wild mammals, roasted pigeon, seafood and plants. Chemical signatures in the ancient bones point to a nutritious and somewhat inevitable side dish: handfuls of fresh maggots.The theory from US researchers undermines previous thinking that Neanderthals were “hypercarnivores” who st…