Sheep husbandry in the early Neolithic of the Pyrenees: New data on feeding and reproduction in the cave of Chaves

Sheep predominate the Early Neolithic faunal assemblages in Iberian Peninsula. Their exploitation for meat and milk production made them key to economy of these early farming societies. Management sheep breeding season feeding context local environment were decisive obtaining livestock products. This work focuses on aspects through stable isotope dental microwear analyses teeth from cave Chaves (Huesca, Spain). The results show existence “out season” (autumn/early winter) births Neolithic, contrasting significantly with spring lambing prevailing husbandries elsewhere Europe confirming antiquity a western Mediterranean characteristic this regard. Furthermore, little changes diet throughout year have been documented, as far could be evidenced carbon ratios microwear. Only two individuals showed higher variability seasonal scale possible contribution C4 plants, possibly grazing valley steppes at lower altitudes. Overall suggest good adaptation Pyrenean mid-altitude strong zootechnical knowledge earliest shepherds area.