| Abstract: |
Evaluating the role of milk production in prehistoric subsistence economies requires a better estimation of the capacityof a milk-oriented husbandry under prehistoric conditions. Weaning pattern, which is linked to the length of lactation,is an important parameter in this estimation. In this study, weaning pattern is closely examined in Neolithic cattle fromthe site of Bercy (Paris, France, c. 4000 ), by a study of intra-tooth (M1, M2) variation in the nitrogen isotope ratios(15N) of dentine collagen. Collagen 15N is commonly used to trace the change of trophic level at weaning time. Thepattern of change in collagen 15N in the first molar of two archaeological bovines is then compared with that observedin modern cattle weaned at known age. Results suggest that the Neolithic calves were weaned early. This could reflecteither a shorter lactation for Neolithic cows, or early weaning imposed by the herder in order to reserve a biggerproportion of milk production for human consumption.
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