For centuries, dogs have been cherished as loyal companions, but recent research has unveiled intriguing evidence of a bygone era where an ancient fox species may have been domesticated. The discovery of a single fox buried alongside a human at the Cañada Seca site in Argentina has shed light on a fascinating chapter in history.
Unearthed in 1991, the remains of this unique fox species, identified as Dusicyon avus, have sparked curiosity among scientists. Analysis of its diet, which surprisingly mirrored that of the human buried beside it, suggests a close bond between the two. This revelation challenges conventional beliefs about the relationship between humans and animals in ancient times.
The researchers propose that this fox was not merely a wild creature but had been tamed and nurtured by the human, serving as a cherished companion. The extinction of Dusicyon avus coincided with the arrival of European settlers and their dogs, marking a significant shift in the ecosystem of the region.
2024-04-10 09:00:04
Original from phys.org