Killing Cattle –Age Selection of Cattle at Iron Age Central Places in Third–Eleventh Century AD Sweden based on Tooth Wear

Bettina Stolle and Ola Magnell

Environmental Archaeology, 2024, vol. 29, issue 6, 513-527

Abstract: Cattle were the most important livestock in Iron Age Scandinavia and have been utilised in multiple ways. This paper aims to investigate the kill-off patterns of cattle in the first millennium (third–eleventh century) AD at four complex and multifunctional sites in Sweden, namely Helgö, Gamla Uppsala, Uppåkra and Stanstorp. The mortality profiles are derived from data on tooth development and wear, with a focus on the dp4 and M3. The results support the notion of regional differences in the selection of animals between eastern central and southern Sweden. The kill-off patterns at Uppåkra and Stanstorp, with a large proportion of adult animals, resemble the pattern observed in early urban centres, such as Birka and Sigtuna. The mortality profiles both at Helgö and Gamla Uppsala exhibit a kill-off pattern with a large proportion of calves and young adults. The patterns are linked to the climatic and ecological preconditions, as well as to food preferences and ritual activities. There does not seem to be a specific age group selected for ritual depositions. However, a recurring kill-off pattern with a high proportion of either juveniles or adult cattle may be linked to a specific selection for communal consumption and feasting events.

Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1080/14614103.2022.2151723

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