The Archaeology of Animals

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Simon J. M. Davis

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In this pioneering work, Simon J. M. Davis presents a broad overview of the new science of zooarchaeology—the analysis of fossil remains of animals—explaining its methods and showing how it helps the archaeologist interpret a site and reconstruct our prehistory and history.

"This is a highly unusual book; not just another one full of dry bones. It is about real animals and people of the ancient past and their interdependence on each other."—Graham Webster, University of Birmingham

"One of the most lucid expositions on archaeozoology available." —Robert Foley, New Scientist

"An excellent introduction to the subject of archaeozoology, Simon Davis' new book delivers even more than it promises. . . . Whether we are zoologists or archaeologists there is a lot we can learn from Dr. Davis' articulate amalgamation of these two disciplines." —Desmond Morris, Oxbow Book News

"At long last somebody has written a book which can be recommended to students as an introduction and source book. Whilst at the same time managing to produce a text which will interest the general reader. Add to this Simon Davis' ability to write concisely without resorting to jargon, stir in a wealth of useful illustrations, and you have a very pleasant book full of good things. The Archaeology of Animals is a successful exercise in providing useful information and pleasant reading."—Zooarchaeological Research News

"The study of animal remains in an archaeological context has grown into an increasingly important aspect of archaeology. Davis has wrapped up these developments into a comprehensive overview; it is a cornerstone in the evolution of a field of study from a mere adjunct to archaeology to a new branch of zoology. This book should be of interest to field archaeologists, zoologists, historians, ecologists, and, last but not least, to advanced undergraduates. Undergraduate and graduate libraries are well advised to rush the acquisition of this title."—Choice

"Readers will value this book."—Kathryn Cruz-Uribe, Science

"Davis' book is splendid. . . . His meticulous attention to the practical details and pitfalls of zooarchaeological research makes this book required reading for all archaeology students. . . . excellent and essential reading for anyone connected with archaeology. . . . The sheer quantity and quality of the illustrations, combined with the attractive layout and the skill with which diverse international threads of palaeontology, zoology and archaeology have been deftly woven together gives this book a very wide appeal. Dr. Davis is to be congratulated."—Barbara A. West, Journal of Archaeological Science

"[The book] is written with an ease and freedom from technical language that bring to mind the writings of an older generation of archaeologists. Davis shows that although archaeology has become a science it can still be as fascinating and intriguing as in the days of Mortimer Wheeler and Glyn Daniel. . . . Davis has produced an excellent account of the more intriguing investigations carried out on animal remains from archaeological sites. It will fascinate all who are interested in changes in the human environment and, as an exposition on interpretation, it should be read by every archaeologist."—Juliet Clutton-Brock, Times Literary Supplement

"Commissioned . . . as one of a series onaspects of archeology for the beginning student and serious lay reader, this superbly produced book can be recommended also to any professional archaeologist or paleontologist who wants to know why it is important to analyze animal remains recovered from archaeological sites."—Richard H. Meadow, Archaeology

"In this absorbing book, Davis describes the methods and problems of zooarcheology, explores the nature of these remains and the information they contain, and outlines how archaeologists use faunal remains to reconstruct the lifeways of ancient peoples. . . . An excellent introduction to the subject and should be read by students of archaeology as well as others with an interest in natural history and human evolution"—Gordon C. Tucker, Science Books & Films

"Recommended without reservation"—Mark Rose, Archaeology

"This book has a very broad scope including most aspects of what has become known as the field of zooarchaeology or archaeozoology. . . . Excellent examples were chosen to illustrate different topics throughout this book. These examples are both clearly described and very well illustrated with combinations of graphs and drawings of the organism or skeletal element, maps of distributions, photographs and drawings of animals and their parts. These all contribute to a most interesting book which clearly presents many of the best examples of zooarchaological research and its full ramifications."—Elizabeth S. Wing, Journal of Ethnobiology

"A splendidly written and illustrated introduction to the archaeological study of past interactions between humans and other animals. . . . The best introductory text of which I am aware. . . . He has crafted a book of considerable utility and import."—Robert D. Leonard, American Scientist

"Interesting, well written, and informative. It is to be highly recommended especially as an accurate, readable introduction to a fascinating and important field. Both professional archaeologists and non-specialists will find this volume worthwhile and enjoyable."—Diana C. Crader, American Journal of Archaeology

ISBN: 9780300063059
Publication Date: May 24, 1995

224 pages, 7 1/2 x 10
153 b/w illus.

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