Bird-bone modifications by Iberian lynx: A taphonomic analysis of non-ingested red-legged partridge remains

The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is a significant taphonomic agent in Iberian ecosystems. Its diet is based almost exclusively on rabbits and it is complemented mainly with birds from the Phasianidae, Anatidae and Corvidae families. We present here the results of actualistic taphonomic research conducted to assess modifications produced by Iberian lynx on non-ingested red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa) remains. Through anatomical representation, breakage patterns and bone surface modifications we were able to establish the main characteristics of the taphocoenosis of the Iberian lynx regarding one of their complementary preys. The results revealed low survival of entire carcasses, remains mainly of offal and feathers - that are barely preserved in archaeological fossil records -, and some skeletal remains. Anatomically there was greater evidence of thoraxes, especially pelvis/synsacrum and adjoining ribs, and distal portions of wings and legs. Breakage was nominal with a high survival of whole elements, but none of the major long-bone remains were complete. The bones in the meaty parts (wings/humeri, drumsticks/femurs and tibiae and breasts/sternums), were very fragmented. Tooth marks were rare and occurred mainly in the form of notches on fractured edges none of which had opposite tooth marks. A comparison of our results with those obtained for the main prey of lynxes - rabbits - indicated a lower survival of bird remains. This differential taphonomic pattern must be related to the anatomy of the prey and the anatomical distribution of meaty parts which are the main interest of the predator.