The selection, use and consumption of animal elements, the deposition of animal bodies in settlements and burials, and the depiction of animals in iconography will reveal processes of cultural categorisation that illuminate the place of animals in the Bronze Age world.

Using zooarchaeological, isotope and organic residue analyses, different aspects of animal management practices will be explored including weaning age, birthing seasonality, the use of different animal products, and variability in animals diets and foddering.

Isotope analysis and investigation of ‘animal architectures’ such as droveways and water holes will be employed to understand patterns of human-animal interaction, engagement and mobility including seasonal transhumance and the movement of animals as part of social transactions.

Analysis of ancient DNA from cattle and sheep will allow us to consider population dynamics and diversity, selection for specific morphological and behavioural traits, evidence for disease, and patterns of biological relatedness that may illuminate inter-site breeding and exchange.