Burning damage and small-mammal human consumption in Quebrada del Real 1 (Cordoba, Argentina): an experimental approach

► We conducted a cooking experiment exposing cavy rodent's carcasses directly on fire. ► Then, we examined the pattern of burning bone modification and elements loss. ► We compared the results with the small-rodent assemblage from Quebrada del Real 1. ► We conclude that archaeological rodent bones were primary accumulated by humans.