Neanderthal energetics and spatial behaviour

Abstract

Recent studies indicate high energetic requirements for Neanderthals. The high requirements have behavioural implications, for example, related to the use of the landscape. Using a simple central place foraging model I show that Neanderthal energetic requirements can explain the main characteristics of the Middle Palaeolithic archaeological record, from the lack of features at sites to the limits of the Neanderthal range.