Transitions in animal utilization from archaeological remains

Abstract

This paper discusses the transitions in animal utilization based on an analysis of animal remains excavated from archaeological sites in the Kinki Region and their context. In this region, archaeological excavations have uncovered the remains of fish, shellfish, birds, and mammals, providing evidence of ancient fishing and hunting activities. These remains underscore the utilization of animals as sources of food and resources since prehistoric times. Domesticated animals emerged from the Yayoi to the Kofun periods; however, they were not edible livestock that provided a stable and continuous meat until ancient times. In early modern times, chickens and pigs were common as meat livestock. On the other hand, wild deer, wild ducks, and other wildlife were hunted for food until the early modern period. This suggests that the natural environment inhabited by these wild animals was conserved, but hunting gradually declined as the use of livestock increased. In addition, marine products were widely consumed in the early modern period, even in inland cities, implying the development of fishing and associated distribution networks. The increased demand for marine products during this period presumably led to the depletion of marine resources, necessitating their political management.