Pitfalls and problems in analysing and interpreting the seasonality of faunal remains

Abstract

Seasonality studies are an important tool in archaeological research, as long as methods are correctly applied. This paper aims to highlight problems which arise in seasonality studies due to a lack of understanding by archaeologists of animal behaviour and biology, and from this, how erroneous archaeological interpretations are then formed. The first point will show how myths regarding animal behaviour can occur and become firmly entrenched in the literature and the minds of archaeologists. The second point will outline how false assumptions can be made concerning reasons for the exploitation of certain species. Finally, it will be demonstrated that when using scientific methods, such as analysis of incremental growth, a thorough understanding of the biology of the species in question is essential