A study published on July 1, 2026, reveals that the earliest Native Americans specialized in megafauna hunting across two continents. Led by researchers from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the analysis of 50 archaeological sites suggests that these ancient populations predominantly hunted large animals, such as mammoths and giant ground sloths, from Alaska to South America.
Dietary Specialization of Early Americans
According to UAF anthropology professor Ben Potter, the research demonstrates that between 83% to 88% of the diet of early cultural groups, including the Eastern Beringians, Clovis people, and Fishtail Projectile Point people, consisted of megafauna. This finding challenges previous notions that early humans were dietary generalists.
The study involved analyzing animal bones found at various excavation sites to determine the species hunted and their biomass. Even after adjusting for smaller animals, the results indicated that megaherbivores dominated the archaeological record, highlighting a focused hunting strategy.
Shared Tools and Hunting Practices
The emphasis on large herbivores led to the development of similar toolkits across diverse regions. Tools found included large fluted projectile points and specialized butchering implements, while fishing gear and plant-processing tools were notably absent. Potter explained that this uniformity in tools reflects a shared hunting focus, enabling early Americans to adapt quickly to new territories.
