A cow’s tooth found in a jawbone deliberately placed beside Stonehenge’s entrance may hold the key to understanding how the ancient monument’s massive stones were transported 125 miles from Wales. Analysis of the third molar tooth revealed that the animal began its life in Wales, adding weight to the theory that cows were used as beasts of burden in hauling the enormous stones.
Historians have been intrigued by the jawbone’s discovery a century ago, but researchers have now found lead isotopes that suggest the cow originated from an area with Palaeozoic rocks, such as those found in Wales. This leads Prof Jane Evans to believe that the animal likely started its life grazing on these older rocks before being transported to Stonehenge.
The jawbone’s placement near the entrance of Stonehenge implies a ritual significance, and researchers are now questioning whether the cow came with the people who built the monument or if it was introduced separately. While there is no conclusive evidence that cows were used as beasts of burden in Neolithic times, associated oxen may have played a role.
Carbon isotopes suggest the cow’s diet changed with the seasons, while strontium isotopes indicate that its food sources came from different geological areas. This suggests that the animal either moved seasonally or had its winter fodder imported. The discovery provides new insight into Stonehenge’s link with south-west Wales and raises questions about the significance of cattle during the monument’s early construction.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/aug/20/cow-tooth-stonehenge-wales-cattle-stones