The Yuka Mystery: Human Presence in the Arctic 39,000 Years Ago
A new study suggests humans colonize the arctic about 39,000 years ago.
The body of Yuka, a young female woolly mammoth considered one of the best preserved ever discovered, has revealed new information about human presence in the Arctic dating back 39,000 years. Discovered in 2010 in northern Siberia, it is estimated to have died between the ages of six and nine, possibly due to an attack by cave lions.
The Yuka’s mummy was found with cut marks on her skin, which scientists have now determined were caused by humans. This discovery provides the oldest evidence of human presence in the Arctic region. Yuka’s body is thought to have been so well preserved because it was frozen after falling into a lake, allowing it to remain intact for nearly 40 millennia.
Yuka's body has been the subject of interest by researchers who are trying to clone and resurrect the woolly mammoth. Preliminary studies have revealed the presence of liquid blood and active cell nuclei in Yuka's body, suggesting the possibility of further scientific discoveries.
Further examination revealed a meter-long incision along Yuka's back, along with cut marks around her eye sockets. These details raise questions about the nature and origin of these wounds, which scientists have sought to answer through experiments and traceological analysis.
The evidence collected indicates that the incisions on Yuka's skin were made by prehistoric humans, using stone tools. Experiments have shown that the characteristics of the cuts match those obtained with flint blades, confirming human intervention in the process.
Based on the state of preservation of the skin, the researchers concluded that the incisions were likely made shortly after Yuka's death, suggesting that humans cut up the body for flesh before it froze.
