On the Possible Utilization ofCamelopsby Early Man in North America

Abstract

Camelopswas a major faunal element in late Wisconsin biotic communities over much of North America. Interpretations of possible human association withCamelopsare often based on poorly evaluated evidence. Ideal standards for acceptable evidence are compared here to the actual evidence that has been advanced. Of 25 fossil assemblages examined, 2 might be examples only of geological contemporaneity of humans andCamelops;2 might indicate behavioral association of humans andCamelopsbones; and 2 might indicate actual human utilization ofCamelops(killing and/or butchering).Camelopsbones interpreted as artifacts are similar to modern specimens affected by noncultural processes.