Trampling

Definition

Trampling refers to the physical disturbance of archaeological sites caused by human activity, often leading to the compression, displacement, or destruction of artifacts and ecofacts within the soil. This can significantly alter the stratigraphy of a site, affecting the integrity and context of the archaeological record. The impact of trampling is particularly important in zooarchaeological contexts, where it can influence the preservation and interpretation of faunal remains.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Trampling can occur both naturally, such as through animal movement, and culturally, through human foot traffic and activity in a site.
2. In zooarchaeological studies, trampling can lead to fragmentation of bone material, which may complicate species identification and interpretation of past human-animal interactions.
3. Trampling effects are often assessed through experimental archaeology, where researchers simulate foot traffic on different soil types to observe changes in artifact position and condition.
4. Identifying signs of trampling in archaeological contexts helps researchers distinguish between natural processes and those influenced by human behavior.
5. Mitigating the effects of trampling is crucial during excavation planning, as it helps preserve important stratigraphic information that is vital for accurate analysis.

Review Questions

• How does trampling specifically impact the analysis of faunal remains in zooarchaeology?
  • Trampling affects faunal remains by causing fragmentation and displacement of bones, which complicates their identification and analysis. When animals or humans walk over a site, bones may be broken or moved from their original context. This not only hinders species identification but also makes it difficult to understand the relationship between humans and animals in the past. Accurately assessing trampling damage is essential for drawing reliable conclusions about past human behaviors related to hunting or domestication.
• Discuss how understanding trampling can influence excavation strategies at archaeological sites.
  • Understanding trampling allows archaeologists to develop targeted excavation strategies that account for potential disturbances in the site's stratigraphy. By recognizing areas that may have experienced heavy foot traffic or disturbances, researchers can adjust their excavation methods to minimize further damage and preserve key layers. Additionally, they might employ protective measures such as covering sensitive areas or conducting more controlled excavations to mitigate trampling impacts. This proactive approach helps ensure that the most valuable data is retained for analysis.
• Evaluate the role of experimental archaeology in assessing the effects of trampling on archaeological sites and artifacts.
  • Experimental archaeology plays a critical role in assessing trampling by allowing researchers to create controlled scenarios where they can observe how different intensities and types of foot traffic affect artifacts and site stratigraphy. By simulating real-life conditions, researchers can gather data on artifact displacement, breakage patterns, and other changes that occur due to trampling. This information is invaluable for interpreting archaeological findings, as it provides insights into how past human activities may have altered sites over time. Ultimately, these evaluations inform excavation practices and contribute to a better understanding of site formation processes.

Related terms

bio-disturbance: The disruption of an archaeological site by biological agents, such as animals and plants, which can affect the preservation and visibility of artifacts.

taphonomy:

The study of how organisms decay and become fossilized, including processes like trampling that affect the remains before they are buried.

site formation processes: The various natural and cultural processes that contribute to the formation and alteration of an archaeological site over time.