Our @ukri.org AHRC-funded project draws together archaeological and archival info to learn more about the #earlymodern ‘sport’ of bear baiting where dogs were set on bears for human entertainment. 🏺🧪
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We examined animal bones from multiple sites in Southwark, London using a variety of techniques including zooarchaeology - species, age, size, injuries and stable isotopes - diet. We found that:
1) the dogs were largely 2-3 years of age, with no evidence of puppies (but few sites were sieved).
3) the bears were all over 4 years of age, suggesting cubs were not used in baiting (or at least did not die until they were older). If they were not being baited - where were they? Maybe dancing or on stage?
4) both the dogs and bears exhibited injuries, but many were healed. Fracture healing times suggest the dogs were surviving for at least 6 weeks post injury and probably more.
5) large numbers of horse bones were found at the sites. They had extensive age-related pathologies and very worn teeth. Most likely knackered horses imported to Bankside (Southwark) as dog and bear food.
6) the horse bones had been gnawed by carnivores, and so had the bear and dog bones. Conclusion: after death the animals were fed to one another. Stable isotope data (C and N) confirmed that dogs and bears had very similar diets.
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1) the dogs were largely 2-3 years of age, with no evidence of puppies (but few sites were sieved).