Analysis of seasonal mobility of sheep in Iron Age Catalonia (north-eastern Spain) based on strontium and oxygen isotope analysis from tooth enamel: First results

This pilot study investigates the existence of seasonal movements of sheep – transhumance – in Iron Age Catalonia (North-Eastern Spain). The occurrence of seasonal movement of livestock between the coast and the interior, perhaps in relation to the Mediterranean market, was suggested for this area b...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of archaeological science, reports reports, 2016-04, Vol.6, p.828-836
Main Authors: Valenzuela-Lamas, S., Jiménez-Manchón, S., Evans, J., López, D., Jornet, R., Albarella, U.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Carbon
Iron age
Isotopes
Oxygen
Sheep/goat
Spain
Strontium
Transhumance
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Summary:This pilot study investigates the existence of seasonal movements of sheep – transhumance – in Iron Age Catalonia (North-Eastern Spain). The occurrence of seasonal movement of livestock between the coast and the interior, perhaps in relation to the Mediterranean market, was suggested for this area based on landscape and palynological studies. This hypothesis was tested on the basis of strontium, carbon and oxygen isotope analysis from seven sheep lower third molars. The evidence obtained suggests that the animals did not move across geological areas during the time of enamel mineralization. In addition, the paper provides valuable isotopic evidence that can be used in further studies. •Sheep transhumance in Iron Age Catalonia (North-Eastern Spain) is investigated.•Strontium, carbon and oxygen isotope analyses on seven sheep lower third molars were performed.•Results suggest that animals did not move across geological areas during time of enamel mineralization.•The paper provides valuable isotopic evidence that can be used in further studies.
ISSN:2352-409X
DOI:10.1016/j.jasrep.2015.08.042