Taphonomy and zooarchaeology of a high-altitude Upper Pleistocene faunal sequence from Hovk-1 Cave, Armenia

► A high-altitude faunal sequence from the Upper Pleistocene of Armenia (MIS 5d-c - late MIS 4/early MIS 3) is analyzed. ► We use multiple lines of taphonomic data to distinguish natural from cultural formation processes within the cave site. ► Results show the cave functioned as a natural trap for bear (Ursus spelaeus) and ungulates (Capra aegagrus, Cervus elaphus). ► We use the natural sequence to assess hominid subsistence patterns at lower elevations in the Caucasus. ► We also explore implications for high-altitude exploitation by Upper Pleistocene hominids of Eurasia.