Humans, megafauna and landscape structure – Rock engravings from Namibia encourage a comparative approach to central Europe and southern Africa

This paper deals with reflections that arose after observing prehistoric rock engravings at different locations in Namibia. These observations stimulated comparative considerations focus on southern Africa and central Europe. Similar to the Aurignacian art of European origin, most common motifs Namibian are large animals. While Europe, species served as a blueprint for illustration have mostly disappeared, megafauna illustrated Namibia can still be found immediate vicinity art. Against this background, we discuss further develop regional approach. We reconstruct evaluate suitability African savannas still-existing communities an appropriate reference-frame natural grassland systems extinct associated warm-adapted (Eemian Interglacial megafauna). Special attention is laid unique situation light global extinction wave following increasing human activity Late Quaternary. leads us use domesticated ungulates surrogate taxa fulfill ecosystem functions Europe part concepts termed “rewilding” or “naturalistic grazing”. After critically examining these concepts, conclude using forms representatives locally disappeared has its justification some extent. If, however, naturally occurring megaherbivore community exists (Africa), should given priority due their organismic abilities limitations adapted harsh conditions specific environment. Finally, application (transboundary) protected areas effective instruments mitigate human-wildlife conflicts. A holistic approach, including nature conservation preservation cultural achievements (domesticated forms, grazing systems), appears promising protection savanna ecosystems fauna elements, inspired write paper.