Discover Hohle Fels: World’s Oldest Bird Depiction Revealed in Stunning Find!

Unearthed from Hohle Fels cave in southwestern Germany, the Hohle Fels water bird is a stunning sculpture crafted from mammoth ivory, dating back approximately 40,000 years. This extraordinary find is not just any figurine; it holds the title as the oldest known representation of a bird globally, showcasing the remarkable artistic abilities of early humans during the Aurignacian period.

Discovered in two parts—its body in 2001 and the head in 2002—the tiny bird, measuring just 1.85 inches (4.7 centimeters), exhibits detailed craftsmanship, featuring carved eyes, a conical beak, short legs, and textured feathers. This piece, along with other figurines found at the site, underlines the Upper Danube region’s historical significance as a hub of cultural innovation.

Archaeologists suggest that the ring shape of the bird’s head may indicate it represents a water bird, such as a diver or duck. The figurine might reveal insights into the spiritual or social practices of its creators, perhaps linked to hunting magic or admiration of wildlife.

The Hohle Fels bird, alongside the collection of ivory carvings, indicates a notable surge in creative expression during a transformative period in human history. Today, many of these artifacts are displayed at the Urgeschichtliche Museum in Blaubeuren, allowing us to glimpse the creative landscape of our ancient ancestors.