Ancient Bone Needles Unearthed in Wyoming Reveal Ice Age Craftsmanship

At Wyoming’s La Prele Mammoth site, archaeologists have unearthed 32 fragments of bone needles estimated to be 13,000 years old, Archaeology Magazine reports.

The discovery sheds light on Ice Age human ingenuity and survival strategies. The site, known for its butchered mammoth remains and evidence of temporary dwellings, has become a key location for studying prehistoric life.

The needles were uncovered during meticulous sifting of sediment through fine mesh screens. Analysis using zooarchaeology by mass spectrometry (ZooMS) revealed that the tools were crafted from the bones of small carnivores such as red foxes, bobcats, lynx, mountain lions, and even the extinct American cheetah. Hare or rabbit bones were also used.

“It was extremely surprising that these needles were made out of small carnivores,” said Wyoming State Archaeologist Spencer Pelton.

Researchers initially expected the tools to be fashioned from the bones of larger animals like mammoths or bison. However, they realized that the slender limb and paw bones of smaller animals required less effort to transform into sewing tools.

Pelton suggested that these finely crafted needles were likely used to produce warm, tailored clothing essential for Ice Age conditions. The garments may have included fur-edged features, such as hoods and sleeves, which would explain the targeted trapping of animals like foxes and hares.

The La Prele Mammoth site continues to yield insights into prehistoric human life. In addition to this discovery, the site has produced artifacts like the oldest known bead in the Western Hemisphere. The findings have been detailed in the scholarly journal PLOS ONE.