Ring depressions in cattle horncores as indicators of traction use – a cautionary note

Publication date: September 2018Source: International Journal of Paleopathology, Volume 22Author(s): Richard Thomas, Naomi Sykes, Sean Doherty, David SmithAbstractIn this short communication we call attention to the discovery of a ring depression (a circumferential constriction) in the horncore of a feral bull. This discovery casts doubt on the attribution of similar lesions in archaeological deposits as conclusive evidence of ‘cord impressions’ resulting from yoking or reining cattle for traction. Drawing upon evidence of horncore depressions in other species, we suggest that they reflect metabolic problems following horn development; additional research is required to test this hypothesis.

Source: International Journal of Paleopathology - August 8, 2018 Category: Pathology Source Type: research