The overkill hypothesis remains a major explanation for megafauna extinctions, with ongoing scientific debate. While butchered bones, stone points embedded in ribs, and kill sites associated with mammoths provide supporting evidence, some researchers argue the hypothesis is difficult to prove with archaeological data alone. The debate over whether overkill, climate change, or a combination of factors drove the extinctions continues among scientists.
Overkill hypothesis fails to explain Ice Age megafauna extinction
Key facts
- The overkill hypothesis suggests humans spread rapidly and hunt megafauna faster than they can adapt
- Still supported by many scientists today
- Evidence includes butchered bones, stone points embedded in ribs, kill sites associated with mammoths
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